Children from Ballymacrickett
arrive for the first classes in their new
state-of-the-art school. US4708-586cd
THERE were cheers of joy from the 285 pupils
of Ballymacrickett Primary in Glenavy as they moved into their
new school last Thursday.
The new �3.5m school at Scroggy Road is a
state-of-the-art building that boasts a library and assembly
hall.
The 2000 square metre school includes 14
classrooms, a medical room, multi purpose hall and canteen, as
well as a one room nursery. The go ahead for the new school was
announced by the then education minister Barry Gardiner in 2002.
It was needed because of the increase in housing
developments in the village which was forcing the school to. use
mobiles to accommodate all the new pupils.
Principal Danny Mulholland described the move
to the new school as an exciting time for the staff, community
and pupils.
Mr Mulholland said: As excited as we are in
moving into the new facility we are also sad to be closing the
doors of another school which has been a big part of so many
people's lives."
It is still unclear what will happen to the
old school but it is believed that the building and site will be
transferred to the Department of Education to help recover the
cost of the new school.
It is hoped the local community group will
then be able to make a successful bid for the school. In the
meantime a Deed of Surrender and an agreed valuation are
currently being obtained by the Trustees.
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The entrance to the
new Ballymacrickett Primary School. US4708-588cd |
After a final gathering at the old
Ballymacrickett Primary School, children leave for
the last time to walk the short distance to their
new multi-million pound state-of-the-art school,
near Glenavy. US4708-579cd |
mary.magee@jpress.co.uk Ulster Star
12/05/2008
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