A ceremony has been held to mark the beginning of construction on a new £33 million development at Down High School in Downpatrick.

Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has held a sod-cutting ceremony on the new school building.

Funded by the Department of Education, the new building will cater for up to 950 pupils, which will include a sports hall, PE facilities and sports pitches.  

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Speaking at the new Down High School site, Minister McIlveen said: "This is a really exciting day for the whole school community as work gets underway on their new building. This is a significant £33 million investment by my Department and will provide a modern learning and teaching environment, tailored to meet the needs of pupils and teachers. 

"It is important to acknowledge the commitment and hard work of the school and its stakeholders in helping to bring the project to this stage. Today, they can all be proud of this important milestone as they look forward to their new school building becoming a reality."

Graham Construction was appointed to carry out the construction works which are due to complete in Spring 2025.