RENOVATION of a Dorchester sports facility is a step closer as a £2.2m contract has been awarded to a construction firm.

Morgan Sindall will carry out refurbishment to the sports hall at Thomas Hardye School, which will include a new composite roof covering, external brickwork and new sports flooring being laid.

There will also be an extension to the changing rooms and shower facilities and the site will re-open to the public in the autumn.

Tony Day, clerk to the governors at Thomas Hardye School, said: “We are one of the largest schools in the country in terms of pupil numbers, and the renovation of the hall is essential for continued use by both the school and the community.

“We are proud of our sporting achievements at Thomas Hardye and have a number of sports teams which are looking forward to using the facilities once work is complete.”

Jon Daines, special works manager at Morgan Sindall, said: “Morgan Sindall is delighted to have been appointed to the refurbishment and extension of this key building in Dorchester.

“The quality of the sporting provisions in secondary education is important and the transformation of the sports hall will bring a wealth of benefits to the school.”