SCHOOL building schemes in North Devon have won Government support.

The Government announced today that it was backing Devon County Council's bid for cash from the Building Schools for the Future programme.

It will mean new or substantially refurbished secondary schools at Chulmleigh and Ilfracombe and new buildings for Marland special school in Torrington.

Work will start on planning the new schools almost immediately, with building work beginning in three years.

Devon was one of 30 local authorities invited to bid for the early release of funds because of its success in delivering other projects.

Today's announcement will mean £80 million from the Government with Devon contributing up to £7 million.

Council leader John Hart said: "This will provide 21st century learning environments for hundreds of Devon students which I am sure will raise standards and ambition in the local community with this significant investment.

"It will also provide a major fillip for the economy in parts of Devon that badly need that boost."

Devon's Cabinet Member for Schools and Skills, Christine Channon, said: "I am delighted that our bid has been successful.

"That is in no small part due to the hard work and commitment of the staff and governors in the schools themselves as well as the dedication of our county council BSF team led by Vic Ebdon and Simon Niles.

"This was a sensible set of proposals for schools that badly need to be replaced.

"These schemes will make a major contribution to economic and social regeneration in these towns and have a positive impact on a range of the services we provide, in addition to the primary aim of improving educational standards."