Rochdale school set for renovation

Morgan Sindall Construction has received planning consent from Rochdale Council to replace outdated facilities at Newhouse Academy in Heywood.

Renovations will see the demolition of the school’s existing main building, with the exception of its front which was recently refurbished. The existing plant, water tank, and substation block will be renovated.

A 16,000 sq ft building will replace the demolished building. This new building, drawn up by Jmarchitects, will form an ‘L’ shape to the south-west of the retained structure. The new-build will range from two to three-storeys in height.

Additional toilet facilities and a lobby will be constructed to the rear of the retained building, spanning 400 sq ft.

Developments will provide an additional 1,800 sq ft to accommodate extra learning resource space.

The proposals, submitted by DDP Planning, include plans for a four-court sports hall and PE store. A dining hall, workshops, science labs, and a drama and fitness studio will also be built.

The 24-acre site is located on Newhouse Road. The main access point to the secondary school for vehicles is via the north of Newhouse Road. Pedestrian access is provided south of this.

Curtins is the structural consultant for the project. Curtins is also consulting on transport, land contamination, flood risk, and drainage.

WSP is advising on energy and lighting.

The project was approved last month.

Shaun Jones, Morgan Sindall’s area director for Greater Manchester, said: “We’re really excited to have received approval for this project and can’t wait to get started.

“We plan to deliver a range of programmes that will bring to life the different elements that go into designing, constructing, and managing a school project such as this.”

The application’s reference number at Rochdale Council is 22/01191/PSID.