The announcement over the Government’s Building Schools for the Future project will have massive implications in East Lancashire for years to come.

There was deep relief in Blackburn at the news that work could go ahead on rebuilding 10 outdated schools.

It is hoped by education chiefs that the scheme will not only see better exam grades but also help children from different backgrounds to mix and create a more integrated town.

But elsewhere there was huge disappointment as plans for schools in Accrington, Oswaldtwistle, Colne, Barnoldswick and Haslingden were all halted.

BSF has seen some of our areas worst schools replaced with state-of-the-art facilities designed to make learning better.

In Burnley and Nelson seven schools have been rebuilt and pupils have already moved into new classrooms.

Latest Ofsted reports show that after a shaky start in some, attainment is now beginning to improve. Of course brand new buildings do not guarantee a better education - the quality of teaching will always be key.

But a bright, airy, stimulating environment is important too.