Kier starts Upton-by-Chester High School rebuild

The contractor has embarked on the three-year construction programme for the large secondary school in Cheshire.

The new 138,800 sq ft school will accommodate 1,845 students and 175 staff, on a site currently used for playing fields in Long Lane, next to the existing school. Most of the original school, dating from the 1960s and 1970s, will be demolished, apart from one building which will become a sixth form block.

The AHR Architects-designed project is funded by the Department for Education’s £20bn School Rebuilding Programme.

The school is nearly double the size of the average UK secondary school which has around 1,000 pupils.

Sarah Morton, regional director for Kier Construction North & Scotland, said: “We are proud to be delivering a modern, inspiring and sustainable school for the Upton-by-Chester community. This redevelopment will not only enhance the educational experience for current students but will serve future generations for years to come.”

There will be 40 classrooms, as well as science labs, studios, library, and specialist classrooms for music and design technology. In addition, a special educational needs unit will serve pupils from Dorin Park Special School.

The new school is funded by the Department for Education. Credit: Kier

The sustainability credentials include a green roof with solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and expanded cycle storage from 125 to 230 spaces.

Lee Cummins, headteacher at Upton-by-Chester High School, said: “We look forward to working in partnership with Kier over the next three years as the project progresses, creating a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the needs of 21st-century education.”

Construction will be phased to ensure minimal disruption to learning throughout the build.

Kier’s recent track record for education projects in the region includes Deyes High School in Maghull.