MAJOR expansion plans for a Welsh medium school in Barry have been approved.

Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg is to build a new design and technology block, a sports and IT block, a multi use games area with six tarmac courts and a 3G all-weather pitch.

A new reception area and entrance block, a plant room and a new coach drop off and pick up area are also included in the plans which would increase the capacity of the school by 299 pupils.

The 3G pitch would be able to open until 10pm and available for community use.

The plans, funded by the Welsh Government and the council’s 21st Century Schools Programme, were unanimously approved by Vale of Glamorgan Council’s planning committee on Wednesday, June 26.

The expansion will mean the capacity of Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg will increase from the current level of 1,361 pupils to 1,660 pupils, of which 250 would be sixth form.

There are currently 1,133 pupils at the school.

Six neighbouring properties objected to the plans, raising concerns about noise and light pollution and traffic.

Council officers said the floodlights from the pitch would be an acceptable distance from neighbouring homes, and that the impact on traffic would be outweighed by the need to expand the school.