Work to take down St Andrew’s Primary School’s key stage two building is due to begin next week.

In July, Newport City Council revealed that the demolition due to take place during the summer holidays had been delayed following the discovery of bats.

However, following the granting of a licence from Natural Resources Wales, work can begin sooner than expected.

Although demolition may continue into September, it is hoped much of the work will be completed before the beginning of term to minimise the disruption to pupils and staff using the site.

Councillor Deb Davies, cabinet member for education, said: “I would like to thank officers for their hard work in getting to this stage and Natural Resources Wales for dealing so quickly with the application for a licence.

“It means that much of the demolition can be completed before the school returns which is really good news.”

The building is securely cordoned off and steps have been taken to ensure the safety of the site and the community.

Construction of the new key stage two building will begin after planning permission is secured. An application is due to be submitted later this year.

The key stage two building has significant structural issues, including complex foundation issues, that cannot be repaired.

Pupils and staff have been relocated to Newport Live’s Connect Centre and will remain there until the new build is completed. Nursery and foundation phase pupils remain on the St Andrew’s site as their buildings are unaffected.