WORK to build a much-needed new school in Christchurch is set to begin - but it won't be ready by the September deadline.

Dorset County Council can now start building the permanent home of Twynham Primary following the purchase of the Marsh Lane site from South West Water, owners of Bournemouth Water.

Currently, the school is based in temporary accommodation at Twynham School in Sopers Lane.

After planning permission was granted for the green belt site last year, an opening date of September 2017 was set.

But delays over the purchase of the land has pushed that back, and the school is now set to be completed by June 2018.

Contractors Morgan Sindall will begin initial works clearing vegetation this week.

And from Monday, March 20 they will start creating the access road to the new site, including drainage and utility connections for the new school.

Boundary walls for next door properties will also be built, with the main building work starting in May.

Extra classrooms will be based at Twynham School for an additional 30 pupils this September.

Cllr Margaret Phipps, county councillor for Christchurch Commons division, said: “This is really good news for the children who are currently in temporary school accommodation. This new school is essential not only for them, but for future children in west Christchurch.”

Dr Terry Fish, executive headteacher of Twynham Learning, added: "We are delighted that the sale has finally been completed to enable the school to be built.

"Twynham Primary School has flourished since its opening under the excellent leadership of the headteacher, Jon Chapple. We are all very grateful for the support of the Christchurch Schools Action Group and officers and elected members of the county council.”

Nick Smith of Christchurch Schools Action Group and chair of governors of Twynham Primary School, said:

“We are elated that construction may now begin of the much-needed permanent school after nearly four years of hard work and commitment from all involved. This has been a long and heartfelt process for all of the parents involved and we would like to thank everyone who supported us throughout.”