Plans have been submitted for a multi-million-pound revamp of Cardigan secondary school as the project moves a step forward.

The finalised £4.8m scheme to extend and refurbish Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi was submitted for full planning to Ceredigion council planners last week.

In total there will be 11 new classrooms built as part of the development of the building, which dates back to 1898, alongside renovation work and the removal of five temporary classrooms.

Planning documents outline that the new plans will make “every effort to minimise alterations to the existing original elements of the school and maintain the interior character of the oldest parts of the school”.

The plans will do away with five “old and deteriorating” temporary classrooms at the school.

“The removal of temporary buildings greatly enhances both the quality and visual appearance of the school and creates an enhanced setting for education,” planning documents said.

“The site has been used for educational purposes for over a century.

“The school is an intrinsic part of the local community and serves a wide catchment area.

“The proposal enhances the existing provision through replacement of temporary, under sized and in some cases outdated facilities.”

Wynne Construction, who were awarded the contract to build the development in March, expect to start on-site in July subject to planning approval being granted, with work taking 18 months to complete.

Chris Wynne, managing director at Wynne Construction said: “This is a significant project for the local community and throughout the construction we will look to leaving a lasting legacy by creating job and training opportunities, working with our local supply chain partners and engaging with pupils as well as showcasing the wide range and variety of job roles available within the construction industry.”

Cllr Rhodri Evans, Cabinet member for economy and regeneration at Ceredigion County Council, said: “As part of the 21st Century Schools Band B programme, the works will include one large extension and a few smaller extensions around the school, including more classrooms, adapting the main reception, extending the canteen, improving the science provision and a new drama studio.”

The budget for the project is spilt 35/65 between the county council and the Welsh Government through its 21st Century Schools programme.

It will include replacing windows, removing temporary classrooms, installing a new energy-efficient boiler and enhancing the existing courtyards.

Other improvements include internal remodelling, a first-floor extension for two science laboratories and another above the music room to create a drama studio.

The three-storey extension will include eight classrooms and three ICT suites.

Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi has 575 students across Years 7 to 11, plus a sixth form of about 100.