The funding allocation for a new secondary school in Castletown is not expected to be confirmed before this year’s Budget.

Education Minister Graham Cregeen told the House of Keys that detailed proposals had not yet been drawn up. Previous estimates put the cost of a replacement for Castle Rushen High School on the current school’s playing fields at up to £40m. About £2.3m was allocated in this year’s Budget for preparations.

Jason Moorhouse (Arbory, Castletown and Malew) asked Mr Cregeen for an update.

Mr Cregeen said: ’There has been extended dialogue with Treasury colleagues over recent months on our strategic brief proposals for the new school as we seek to provide a future-proofed, excellent educational facility for the south of the island, which is also developed to excellent environmental standards.

’Dialogue continues with Treasury as we seek to ensure that appropriate funding is provided for the scheme under the 2020-21 Pink Book (Budget) process.’

When questioned on whether a sprinkler system would be included, Mr Cregeen said: ’We are not in the detailed proposals as yet. We have no design, but we are just looking at the initial budget.’

A planning application for the first phase, new playing fields, has been submitted.