NELSON headteacher Geoff Walker has spoken of his vision for Walton High School when it has been rebuilt.

A brand new£25million school will open on the Oxford Road site in 2008 and Mr Walker told students, parents and teachers that the scheme was a "win-win situation" at its annual prize night.

He said: "In my dreams I already know the layout of the school. All we have to do is build it."

Walton High is one of three Pendle secondary schools chosen in the government's Building Schools for the Future programme.

It will close in 2006 and Mr Walker said notices of closure posted this week were a "reality check."

The changes at Walton have meant plans for a sports hall and canteen were deferred and the school's application for Specialist College status put on hold. But Mr Walker believes it will all be worth it.

He said: "The new schools will be fabulous - architecturally dynamic with stimulating buildings designed for learning, sport and socialising.

"All the schools will incorporate the most advanced technology. New sports areas, dining facilities, community and recreational areas will be incorporated.

"These will not merely be schools but extended learning centres for the whole community. It's a win-win situation.

"The fabric and look of the schools will be unrecognisable but they are about people, traditions, ethos and relationships. These are the abiding qualities that constitute the heart of any community.

"I know that when these qualities are transferred from Walton to any new building then that will indeed be a very positive and vibrant place to be."