PLANS to build a new state-of-the-art science block at one of the borough's biggest schools are set to be decided.

A multi-million pound scheme to refurbish and extend the current science labs at Wanstead High School received the backing of councillors at a meeting of Area One committee last night - just weeks before they are voted on by full council as part of this year's budget proposals.

The £4.169 million project had been included in last year's capital programme but did not go ahead.

But its backers are now hopeful that building work will finally go ahead as planned at the school, in Redbridge Lane West, in April this year.

Wanstead ward councillor Alex Wilson said the rebuilding was urgently needed.

He said: "I was taken on a tour of the school by the headteacher late last year and it is clear the science labs are no longer fit for purpose.

"The roof leaks and the building is not in a good way.

"This work has been needed for some time now, and I hope it will now go ahead if passed by full council at the March meeting."

Full council will meet to vote on the budget proposals at Ilford Town Hall on March 4.