A SCHOOL has unveiled plans for a new £4.5m sixth form centre.

Mayflower High School, Billericay has taken the decision to build the new centre as the current sixth form facilities can no longer accommodate the growing number of students.

The school currently has more than 300 sixth form students, almost all of who were previous students.

It will need to cover all costs of the project and is planning to sell a plot of land to make the funds required.

The school has launched a consultation into the land sale.

There will be a later consultation under any application for planning consent.

The consultation ends on March 1.

There will be a public meeting at the school on Monday, February 11 from 7pm until 8.30pm in the current sixth form centre.

Stephen Wright, chair of the school's governing body, said: "The new building will provide a modern, fully equipped study area for sixth form students.

"The overall project cost is estimated to be £4.5m and the school is required to fund this in full.

"There will be no contribution from Government and all costs must be met from the school’s own resources.

"The school intends to generate funds by selling the plot of land.

"Most of this plot comprises waste land that has never been used since the school was first built more than 50 years ago and has previously been a safeguarding risk and maintenance burden.

"Whilst a small piece of school playing field will also be included in the sale, the school will compensate for this by installing an all-weather games pitch to ensure no reduction in useable space.

"The land sale requires permission from the Secretary of State for Education and, as part of its submission, the school needs to gather views from the community."

Further information can be found on the school’s website at www.mayflowerhigh.essex.sch.uk.