A large section of a school which was forced to close last year after asbestos was found has been cleared of the substance.
The keys to Cwmcarn High School’s Performing Arts Centre have been handed back ready for pupils and staff to return after Christmas.
Headteacher Jacqui Peplinski said: “We are thrilled to have a large section of our school handed back following the extensive works that have been taking place on the school site. We have every intention of utilising the Performing Arts block for community surgeries and other community meetings over the coming weeks – and the countdown really is now on until we’re able to return home to Cwmcarn.”
Asbestos removal and remediation works have now been completed within the school buildings and contractors are now undertaking other essential works in readiness for the school’s full return after Christmas.
The school shut in October 2012 after the discovery of asbestos by contractors and its 900 pupils have since been taught at Coleg Gwent’s Ebbw Vale campus.
Caerphilly County Borough Council agreed to spend £1 million on removing the asbestos. In July this year contractor James Paul, 26, from Abertillery, was killed at the school while working in a suspended ceiling void.