A BARROW school has been transformed after a six-figure regeneration project comes to an end.

The brand new main entrance and reception area at St Pius X Catholic School costing £100,000 was officially opened by Barrow’s Mayor Bill McEwan yesterday alongside representatives of Ocean Construction, school leaders and the school’s council.

The project started on January 21 has seen the installation of the very latest security features.

From CCTV, a new electronic sign in system to electronic fire doors - all have been created to ensure the highest standards of child safety.

It has also helped to completely reconfigure the school, with the former reception previously at the side of the building now ideally situated at the front with improved access for both students and parents.

The mayor, who is also an Ormsgill councillor, raved about the transformation and how much it has benefitted both the school and community.

Cllr McEwan said: “It was an honour to be invited to officially open the new reception. Ocean Construction have done a wonderful job.

“From the new colourful fencing at the front to the the new reception - it is now just so inviting for parents and children.

“Safety wise it is also first class.

“It also helps to bring the whole Ormsgill area up and seen as it is one of the oldest school’s it has now been brought into the modern era.”

Headteacher at the school, Kevin McGoldrick said: “The school feels both safe and inviting.

"The entrance is now modern and central giving a clear focus at the school.

“The children all love it and they really feel like it’s theirs as they have seen all the work develop.

“The school is at the heart of the community and I am proud to be a teacher here.”

Daniel Lockhart managing director at Ocean Construction, who carried out the work, said: “It was a pleasure carrying out this project for on behalf of the school and we believe it will have a positive impact on the school environment for years to come.”