NEWPORT'S latest replacement secondary school will get a new name when it opens to pupils next year.

Hartridge High School will be renamed Llanwern High School when its new building is completed in October 2012.

The new name proved to be most popular from a shortlist drawn up by the governing body that was shared with pupils, staff and members and was officially confirmed this week.

Councillor David Atwell, cabinet member for education and young people, said: "It is wonderful to watch the new school taking shape and I'm delighted it will have a new name to reflect what will be a fresh start for everyone.

"Pupils and staff have had their say on the name just as they played a part in the design of the new school. The fit-for-purpose building will provide many exciting opportunities for education and the community in the future."

Headteacher Peter Jenkins said: "The decision to rename the school was only taken after a large amount of consultation and discussion.

"Having chosen the name, the next steps will be to decide on a new school badge, colours and uniform. Throughout each of these stages it is the students' views that will carry greatest weight.

"It is obviously an extremely exciting time for all of us and we firmly intend to capitalize on all the opportunities this provides."

Construction of the £29 million building is being carried out by the Leadbitter Group which successfully delivered the award-winning Newport High School, Bettws Lane, which opened in 2009.

The scheme has already been selected as a demonstration project by Constructing Excellence under the themes of sustainability, procurement and consultation.

It will have two teaching wings wrapped around a central atrium, will house 1,450 pupils and will boast a state-of-the-art library, drama and music studios, a sports hall, gym and dance studio.