Conlon hands over £7m school
Conlon Construction has completed the redevelopment of Whitefield Infant School and Nursery in Nelson, East Lancashire.
The 72-week heritage project next to the Leeds-Liverpool Canal saw the Preston-based firm demolish existing derelict industrial and residential buildings and construct a two-storey property spanning 20,990 sq ft.
Comprising an administration and classroom block, the project included playgrounds, outdoor classrooms, a walled garden, pond and nature study area.
The scheme also features an entrance to the school library constructed to appear as if built with larger-than-life books more than 2m tall, painted by local artist, Steve Hutton. The architects were Lancashire County Council's in-house team.
Headteacher Mrs Cummins said: "We are thrilled with our new building which is both unique and spectacular but perhaps most significantly fit for purpose. I am confident that the facilities created here will widen the learning opportunities for our children and families, today – tomorrow and in the future."
Phil Ashall, contracts manager at Conlon Construction, added: "This has been a complicated and challenging project, built within a tight timeframe and budget. It's been a pleasure to work with all parties as one big team in a proactive and professional way.
"We wish the school all the best in their new teaching environment and trust this helps them to continue to provide an outstanding teaching facility for all."
