Ipswich MP Jack Abbott welcomes funding for five schools, including Parkside Academy and Springfield Junior School

An MP has welcomed news that five schools in Ipswich are set for urgent repairs after receiving a share of hundreds of million of pounds in funding.

On Friday, SuffolkNews reported that the Government had allocated £1.2 billion for upgrades to schools across England – including Suffolk.

In total, £470 million of this cash would go to schools, with 19 in Suffolk set for a share of the pot.

Jack Abbott, MP for Ipswich, said he had long campaigned for upgrades to schools in the town.

The five schools in Ipswich set for funding are Parkside Academy, Springfield Junior School, Alderwood Academy, Morland Church of England Primary School and St Matthew’s Church of England Primary School.

Mr Abbott said: “For too long, children in our town have been taught in buildings that simply aren’t good enough. This funding will help put that right.

“Whether it's fixing leaking roofs, replacing dangerous materials or updating vital infrastructure, these repairs will make a real difference to pupils and teachers alike.

“Every child deserves to learn in a safe, secure and modern environment, and this is a positive step towards that goal.”

Mr Abbott said the £470 million forms part of a wider £2.1 billion investment in schools this year, which would also include the school rebuilding scheme, allowing for rebuilding and refurbishment at school sites.

The earliest work on school will begin in summer, while all are expected to finish by the end of the 2025/26 financial year.