HADDINGTON, Hanover – RESIDENTS of this rural district and surrounding communities will are soon benefit from a $29.3-million refurbishing of the Haddington Basic School.

Work on the facility is expected to begin later this month, following the signing of a financing agreement by Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).

The scope of work, which should last for four months, will include upgrading of three classrooms and students’ bathrooms, kitchen and storage areas, as well as the construction of a cafeteria and play area.

The fencing of the play area and installation of two water storage tanks, also form part of the works to be undertaken.

Several community members are expected to benefit from employment opportunities during the expansion of the facility, which has 57 students on roll and three teachers.

According to project manager for JSIF’s Basic Needs Trust Fund, Carl McKenzie, the project would not only benefit the students but would also impact on the community.

He said that the partnership with the Caribbean Development Bank, which provided the funding for the expansion under the Trust Fund programme, demonstrates a commitment to community development. He noted that the Haddington Progressive Society has proposed to host a library and remedial classes for the wider community of Haddington.