TWO Cwmbran secondary schools could close as part of Torfaen council plans to improve all the county's schools.

Llantarnam School and Fairwater High could be replaced by a new school, as part of the authority's revised 21st century schools programme.

The authority had to resubmit its plans after the Welsh Goverment reduced its funding contribution.

The changes have led Torfaen to propose slashing spending on the project from £280.6 million between 2012 and 2023 to £257.6 million between 2014 and 2028.

At an extraordinary meeting on Thursday, councillors unanimously agreed revisions to the first phase, or Band A, of the plans, which covers work from 2014-2019.

Spending during that time has been reduced from £90.6 million to £81.6 million.

But a report to members also revealed details of what that will be spent on.

This will include the closures of Llantarnam and Fairwater. A new school will then be established on a site to be determined at a cost of £6 million.

Head teachers of the two schools last week welcomed the proposals.

David Marshall, head teacher at Fairwater High School said: "Any proposals which result in improved, more contemporary and modern provision for pupils is to be welcomed."Head teacher at Llantarnam School David Bright added: "The transition needs to be managed well, but our job in education is about changing the future, so I welcome better facilities for the children of Cwmbran."

Primary schools which could be closed and merged with others as part of the first stage plans include Pontymoile, Pontnewynydd, and Kemys Fawr Primary.

Torfaen's executive member for children and young people Cllr Mary Barnett said: "If successful, our proposals will raise standards, pupil achievements, and give all young people the aspiration and opportunity to be the best they can be."