The three new east Belfast buildings are part of seven new schools being built across the city in a partnership between the Belfast Education and Library Board (BELB) and AmeyFMP.

While First Minister Peter Robinson laid the foundation stone at Grosvenor Grammar and Orangefield Primary School, Vice Chancellor of Queen’s University Professor Peter Gregson performed the honour at Ashfield Girls’ School.

BELB chairperson Jim Rodgers said he looked forward to new and modern facilities being made available, not just to school pupils, but to communities throughout the city.

“For the first time in the history of Belfast we have seven new schools being built at the same time. We have always endeavoured to provide, not only the very best education, but best facilities for every child in the city of Belfast,” said Mr Rodgers.