AN ambitious �3.5 million building project is well underway at a St Albans school which has embarked upon one of its biggest development programmes since the 1960s.

St Columba’s College on King Harry Lane hopes to open the doors of its redeveloped campus core in summer 2013.

A spokeswoman for the school said once completed, the project would provide significant additional space for senior pupils and staff.

The Coindre Hall, the College’s assembly hall, gym and main performance area, is at the centre of the development and is being given a facelift.

There will also be a new building containing a modern set of classrooms, meeting/syndicate rooms, offices and a redesigned locker area.

The scheme includes a new purpose-built weights and conditioning room with a range of cardio-training equipment and free weights area.

The reception will be reconfigured and greatly extended to provide both a spacious area and panoramic views across the sports fields to the Abbey.

An old Daily Express newspaper dating back to 1961 was unearthed during demolition works.

Former headmaster Brother Clement, aged 84, who works part time as the College’s archivist, has been keeping an eye on the development which began in summer 2012.

Brother Clement has maintained a close connection with the school for the last 57 years.