TWO new primary schools are being planned for the Valleys in a multi-million pound scheme.

Education provision in Nantyglo and in Willowtown, Ebbw Vale, is set to be overhauled after the National Assembly pledged £6.5 million to replace three dilapidated schools.

In Nantyglo, Garnfach Infants, built in 1879, and Coed Cae Junior school are set to be replaced by a 3-11 primary school.

The new facility will be built on the site of Coed Cae Junior school and is set to cost around £3 million.

It will include a sports hall with changing rooms as well as an artificial turf for pupils and community use.

An early-years centre is also being included in the school for Nantyglo to offer childcare facilities, classes for young people and adults and other community support services.

Construction of the school for Nantyglo is scheduled to begin in the spring of next year and would open in September 2006, subject to completion of statutory procedures.

The project to replace Willowtown Primary school will provide new recreational facilities on the playing field.

The scheme is set to cost £3.5 million and is due to begin next year ready for completion at the end of 2006.

John Pearce, director of lifelong learning, said: "There is strong local support for the replacement of these schools so we are delighted with this announcement.

"Replacing ageing buildings and improving the standards of our educational facilities is a priority for us in ensuring that our children and young people enjoy safe and pleasant surroundings that stimulate their desire to learn.

"Integrating community facilities into our schools places them at the heart of communities. It ensures that full use is made of school facilities for both educational and recreational purposes."