The renovation of a north-east secondary school will soon begin with the council searching for a contractor to take on the works.
Construction works will take place over three phases at Fraserburgh Academy and will run into next year.
The council wants to add an extension onto the music department at the Dennyduff Road site.
It is proposed that a purpose-built drama studio is added on to the building.
Director of education and children’s services, Laurence Findlay, said: “We are looking forward to works commencing on upgrading Fraserburgh Academy.
“A small extension will accommodate a brand new drama studio and reconfiguration of existing space will enable the drama and art departments to be permanently accommodated within the main building.
“Improved learning spaces for pupils with additional support needs and a new staff room are also included within this scope of work.
“Construction is expected to begin in June on this phase of the project and we anticipate this being completed early next year before working towards phase two which will transform two home economics kitchens and support spaces.”
The drama studio would feature a stage, sound booth with a lighting and sound control desk, and a props store.
The classroom would be connected to the main building via a corridor so that the drama classes would no longer take place in the annex adjacent to the school.
The third and final stage of work will focus on alterations carried out in the art department and the installation of a stair lift.
Fraserburgh councillor Brian Topping was pleased that progress was now underway.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted.
“This is long overdue but very much appreciated for the school, teachers and, most important off all, the pupils.
“We always strive to provide to best teaching and learning environment that we can.
“This is a huge financial investment for a really good school.”
