CONSULTATION begins today on the £150million masterplan to transform the area's secondary schools.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has revealed proposals for each school site under the government-funded Building Schools for the Future (BSF) scheme.

The move follows a bigger picture' consultation when people were made aware of the plans, which, if given the go-ahead, will come into effect by 2016.

Detailed proposals can be viewed and commented on from today.

The council based its plan on the predicted demand for pupil places, location, cost and benefits to education.

After three months of public consultation, the council will report to the government on potential changes to the project.

Building work is then expected to start in 2010, with new and remodelled schools opening from 2012. No schools would close before 2011.

Briefing sessions are also being organised for school staff, governors and parents.

Coun Chris Thayne, children's services boss, said: "So far we have concentrated on developing our vision. Now it is time to look at the proposals in more detail and agree the best way to deliver services so we can turn our vision into a reality.

"These are exciting times, with many new opportunities being created for our young people, as well as facilities that the entire community will be able to benefit from. I hope people will attend one of the many events over the summer to find out more about our BSF proposals and tell us what they think."

l Neighbourhood open days will take place from 2.30pm to 7pm at: Wensleyfold Space Centre, Manor Road, today Shadsworth Children's Centre, Shadsworth Road, on Thursday, June 28 Darwen Access Point, Duckworth Street, on Thursday, July 3 Pleckgate City Learning Centre, Pleckgate Road, on Tuesday, July 17 Witton City Learning Centre, Buncer Lane,on Thursday, July 19.

l Weekend BSF drop-in sessions will take place from 10am to noon at: Northgate Suite, King George's Hall, on Saturday, July 21 Darwen Access Point, Duckworth Street, on Saturday, August 11.

l Information stands will be at Darwen Gala on Saturday, August 18, and in The Mall, Blackburn, on Wednesday, August 22.