NEARLY £7 million will be invested into Bolton's school buildings between the next three years.

The government has earmarked £6,827,941 for Bolton Council and the money will be targeted at schools with buildings in the greatest need of repair.

In the year 2004-5 about £4.3 million will be distributed across Bolton, and in 2005-06 Bolton schools will receive around £2.4 million

Jeff Fletcher asset management planning manager at Bolton Council said: "It's a very significant amount. We weren't clear on what would be happening after next year. It's very helpful to know what grants have been promised to us."

Education bosses will now look at surveys reporting on the physical condition of schools and assess the buildings' suitability for modern education.

Consultation will also take place between headteachers and governing bodies on what the highest priorities should be.

Previous surveys have found that science and technology laboratories had not been modernised for a number of years. Other priorities are expected to involve ICT and support staff accommodation.

Mr Fletcher added that a specific amount of the money has been reserved for voluntary aided schools.

He said of the £4.3 million allocated to Bolton for 2004-5, voluntary aided schools would receive £1.2 millions while the LEA will receive just over £3 million. However, this latest cash boost is not the only money available for school building works.

Mr Fletcher said, other funding available included the access initiative -- which provides funding to improve access for children with disabilities and sensory impairments.

Is your child taught in a crumbling classroom urgently in need of repair? Contact the newsdesk on 01024 537270.