Contractor Heron Bros had to down tools at the new Corby Primary Academy after great crested newts were spotted.

Northamptonshire County Council said the protected amphibians have now been moved to a nearby pond and work will start again next week.

The academy will still open next month, but will be confined to the former Exeter Primary School’s junior block.

The new building on the Butland Road site, in Oakley Vale, will be ready for 60 more pupils in September 2014 – it was originally due to be finished in July 2013.

Catherine Boardman, cabinet member for children and education, said: “I’m delighted that work can actually begin on site and I’m looking forward to this very important development taking shape.

“A new primary school is very much needed in the Oakley Vale area of Corby to cater for the increase in population.”