The cash will also be used to improve existing sports facilities

Oaklands School in Acomb is to modernise its synthetic pitch and build a fitness suite, which will include a dance studio and climbing wall.

The money is being provided through the Big Lottery Fund, Sport England and the City of York Council.

Head teacher Michelle Burns said it will make the school a leading provider of sport facilities in the region.

This really puts Oaklands at the forefront of sport education and provision in York and North Yorkshire Michelle Burns, head teacher

People from the local community and pupils from surrounding schools will also be allowed to use the new facilities, which are set to open in September 2005.

Sport England's share of the funding, which is �261,000, will be used to improve the all-weather pitch for the benefit of the local community.

Spokesman David Gent said it was one of a number of sports facilities at the school that needed improvements.

Ms Burns said the school was delighted to get the go-ahead for the building project.

"This will be a tremendous boost to the school, the community and local economy.

"These new facilities will provide a wonderful resource for young people in our school and for community sports users."