The £38m contract represents the second batch of schools for the region under the priority schools building programme for the Education Funding Agency (EFA). Galliford Try was handed the first batch, under a £35.7m contract, last month. (See previous report here.)
BAM’s batch of includes two secondary schools and two primary schools and together will collectively provide learning spaces for 3,230 pupils. The schools are Withernsea High School, Wolfreton School and Sixth Form College, Neasden and Foredyke Primary Schools.
All the schools are being built on their existing locations, and include an element of demolition to replace the current buildings.
BAM has been appointed as panel member for Withernsea High School, which is the sample school for the batch, and this is now subject to obtaining planning permission before a potential start on site by December. This project is approximately 60% new build and 40% refurbishment.
The other three schools are subject to final agreement being reached through the invitation to tender process. Assuming this is achieved, they start on site early in 2015.
BAM has held very positive meetings with around 50 local residents at a recent community event in Withernsea to support the planning application.
BAM Construction pre-construction manager Paul Cleminson said that the contract win “reflects well on how BAM has been striving to create inspirational learning environments despite significantly tighter budgets”.
He said: “Our work at Boulevard Academy in Hull, Maltby Academy and Kings Science Academy has involved a lot of research and development into creating modern learning spaces and lean management. It is very satisfying that this quality is being recognised and allowing us to maintain a presence in Hull and the East Ridings where we’ve been delivering some very special buildings.”
Bond Bryan is lead architect for the schools except Wolfreton, which will be designed by Ryder Architecture’s Newcastle Office. BAM Design and Silcock Leedham are the structural and environmental consultants, respectively.
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