Schools across the north will benefit from more than £1.1m in investment in the coming months under the Minor Works Scheme.

Education Minister, John O'Dowd said: "Since January this year, almost £25 million has been allocated to minor works contracts with over £1.1million being invested in 41 contracts during the month of July.

"This ongoing investment in the schools estate is having a positive impact on pupils, teachers and school staff and provides a much needed boost to the construction industry at what is a challenging time for local firms."

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Minor works contracts awarded during July include a new car park at Chapel Road Primary School in Derry, resurfacing work at Loreto Grammar School in Omagh and new and refurbished toilet facilities at Anahorish Primary School in Antrim and Edendork Primary School, Dungannon.

Since last summer, 40 new school building projects were given approval to proceed representing a potential investment of £353m. The Minister added: "These major projects obviously generate a significant amount of interest and have a positive impact not only on those individual school communities but also on the local economy. However, in addition to these more high profile projects, it is important to note that there continues to be investment in the schools estate on an ongoing basis."

(CD/JP)