The school is expected to open in September 2009

It is planned to demolish the existing building in Newbridge-on-Wye, near Llandrindod Wells, and open a new school in September 2009.

Powys Council had intended to renovate the school, but decided it was more cost-effective to build a new one.

The local authority said it was the first in a series of school modernisation projects in the county.

Building work in Newbridge-on-Wye is expected to start later this year.

The chairman of the school governors Julian Gibson-Watt was delighted with the news.

'Environmental impact'

"I think it's a recognition of the quality of the school and the quality of the staff and tremendous encouragement for everyone at the school," said Mr Gibson-Watt.

Powys Council said the school would cater for 118 pupils.

It added: "The recommended option is for the present school building to be demolished and a new building located on the same site.

"The new school building would incorporate the existing community hall into the design to provide an integrated, effective educational and community facility with the wide range of benefits.

"Due to the design and construction processes of the new build it will produce a building that will have a much lower environmental impact, have a serviceable design life extending beyond the existing building, reduced maintenance costs and 40% reduced energy consumption."

Last October, councillors backed controversial plans to close three primary schools in the county.

They voted to shut Llangurig, Howey, near Llandrindod Wells, and Thomas Stephens School in Pontneddfechan.

A decision about Carno, near Newtown, Llanfihangel Yng Gwynfa and Ysgol Efyrnwy schools, near Llanfyllin, has been deferred.