CORONAVIRUS

Boris Johnson pledges a decade of spending on schools

We will create opportunity for all, says Johnson
Boris Johnson, who waited in line to wash his hands during a visit to Bovingdon Primary School this month, will announce a £1 billion programme today
Boris Johnson, who waited in line to wash his hands during a visit to Bovingdon Primary School this month, will announce a £1 billion programme today
STEVE PARSONS/GETTY IMAGES

Boris Johnson will announce a £1 billion school-building programme today as he tries to reset the political agenda after the coronavirus crisis.

The cash will pay for the first 50 projects of a ten-year investment, with a further £560 million for repairs and upgrades to schools next year.

The spending will be aimed at schools in the worst condition. “Substantial” sums will be promised for those in the north and Midlands, Downing Street said last night. The first projects will start in September next year. Further education colleges will be able to access £200 million brought forward from an existing fund to refurbish their buildings.

The prime minister will promise to usher in a “decade of investment” tomorrow, with further spending announcements on hospitals, prisons