A MULTI-million pound investment into a north Suffolk school is one step closer after Suffolk County Council's cabinet recommended it for approval.

The funding for Pakefield High School, near Lowestoft, which was approved by full council yesterday, forms part of the Children and Young People's capital programme, which means the county council will continue with its commitment to build the new school.

The planned improvements were originally set to be delivered through Building School's for the Future grant funding. However, since the governments cancellation of the scheme, Suffolk County Council is committed to ensuring the school can grow to accommodate 900 pupils in a modern, fit-for-purpose facility.

The first phase of the project is under way, and is expected to cost around �12m.

Meanwhile, plans will be prepared for the next phases of the project, at less cost than the original design, but still providing the facilities needed.

Councillor Graham Newman, Suffolk County Council's portfolio holder for children, schools and young people's services, said: 'The new Pakefield High School is a key part of our planning for the Lowestoft area.

'It represents the culmination of the county council's investment in this part of Suffolk to reorganise the education provision to the nationally recognised two-tier system, thus transforming the prospects for local children and young people.

'I am delighted that the Cabinet has decided to recommend full council approves the �7.5 million expenditure to complete the building, consequent upon the Government cancelling its Building Schools for the Future project.'