Construction work has begun on a £7m expansion of a school in Somerset.
BAM Construct has said it has begun works on a new two-storey building on the grounds of Holyrood Academy in Chard.
Designed by Grainge Architects, the new building will incorporate a purpose-built student/dining area, six classrooms and new office space and meeting rooms.
The scheme also includes an extensive refurbishment of the school’s existing accommodation and the modernisation of science facilities.
Work began with the safe demolition of the former Cresta swimming pool building adjacent to the school on Zembard Lane.
BusinessLive’s sister website SomersetLive previously reported Somerset County Council closed the facility in September 2018, stating it could longer afford to maintain it.
BAM has been appointed as principal contractor for the new block building, which will be all-electric and fitted with energy efficient fabric.
The company said the scheme would increase Holyrood Academy’s capacity by an extra 225 places.
Cllr Clare Paul, cabinet member for education and public health at Somerset County Council, said the expansion was “exciting news” for the school and the town, and would help to address demand for additional education spaces as the Chard’s population grows.
Tim Chell, BAM Construct’s western regional director, covering South West England and South Wales, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to deliver this project that will demonstrate BAM’s established credentials in building sustainable, energy-efficient schools in the region.”
David McCormick, head teacher at Holyrood Academy, added: “We are delighted that the demolition work is complete and the construction of our new building is now underway. The students and staff are very excited by the plans and are looking forward to seeing them take shape.”
BAM said it has previously worked on “at least a dozen” education schemes in the past decade, including Bridgwater College Academy and Weston College Academy.
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