PARENTS will be asked for their views on plans to spend £500,000 improving a school in Upper Stratton.

Swindon Borough Council wants to build a resource and library area and new classrooms at Ruskin Junior School.

The proposals will involve replacing three mobile classrooms with permanent accommodation, relocating a double mobile and creating a new library-learning resource area with stores for equipment.

But before a detailed planning application is submitted, the council says it wants to hear what people think about its proposals.

It is organising an informal exhibition of the proposed plans in the school hall on Monday between 4pm and 7pm when a member of the council's design team will be present to answer questions. If the work does go ahead at the 385-pupil school, the new buildings should be ready to use by March 2002.

Mike Lusty, Swindon's director of education and community, said he hoped everyone with an interest in the school would take the opportunity to comment on the plans.

"The staff and governors have been closely involved throughout in the planning of this new accommodation. Now there is an opportunity for parents and the public to comment on these important developments,'' he said.

The proposals have been welcomed by Coun Chris Eley, who is the lead member for lifelong learning at the council.

He said: "This is yet another example of the considerable investment which is being made into one of our schools.

"Spending half a million pounds to upgrade Ruskin School will significantly improve the learning environment for Stratton children who attend this school.

"I know all in the community will be pleased to see the council addressing this.''

Head teacher Creighton Muirhead said improving facilities at the school had been one of his top priorities.

The school has a total of 13 classrooms. But two of the three mobile classrooms that are going to be replaced have been there for at least 30 years and the other one does not have proper facilities.

"This scheme is badly needed and will benefit both the pupils and staff,'' said Mr Muirhead.

"We hope we will be setting a real standard for others to look up. We want the best library facilities any school can have."