Education Minister Paul Givan has confirmed that plans for a new school building for Roddensvale in Larne will move forward to the pre-tender phase as part of the Special Educational Needs Capital Investment Programme (SEN CIP).

The project will create modern, purpose-built accommodation for up to 275 pupils, featuring high-quality facilities designed to strengthen teaching and support children and young people to realise their potential.

Speaking during a visit to the school, Paul Givan said: "I have seen first-hand the outstanding work being undertaken by staff and the positive impact it is having on the lives of the children and young people at the school, where every pupil is encouraged to develop their talents, grow in confidence and achieve their potential.

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"I am pleased to announce that plans for a new build school for Roddensvale will now progress in planning to pre-tender stage. This marks the beginning of an important new chapter for the dedicated staff, pupils and local community.

"This project will provide high-quality, purpose-designed accommodation, tailored to support the needs of pupils and staff, ensuring the school is well equipped to deliver high-quality education for years to come."

Welcoming the announcement, Roddensvale School Principal John Madden MBE BEM said: "Today marks an exciting milestone for Roddensvale and reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that pupils with special educational needs have access to high-quality learning environments that meet both current and future needs.

"Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to provide outstanding education and care for every pupil, and this new school will help ensure that future generations of children can learn, grow and thrive in modern facilities designed specifically to support their learning and development."