AN £18.4 million investment in education facilities in areas including Basingstoke has been agreed.

Part of the money, approved by Hampshire County Council’s executive member for education, Cllr Peter Edgar, will be used to expand Kings Furlong Infants and Junior School, in Upper Chestnut Drive, Basingstoke.

The expansion plans will create additional primary school places for the town.

Cllr Edgar said: “Thanks to our strong track record in planning for the future, we are continuing to keep pace with providing additional school places to meet continued rising demand in Hampshire.

"I am also pleased that we are able to invest in creative and sports facilities to ensure young people have the opportunity to enjoy an all-round educational experience.

“We pride ourselves on investing in quality school buildings.”