Multimillion-pound school transformation completed in time for new academic year
An expansion to increase capacity at Wilmslow High School by 360 places has been completed by Preston-based Conlon Construction.
The firm has concluded its multimillion-pound, multi-year project in time for the 2024/2025 academic year.
Funded by Cheshire East Council and procured through the North West Construction Hub Framework, the extensive expansion permits a school transition from a 10-form to 12-form entry, elevating its capacity to new heights.
The project encompassed a diverse range of enhancements, including a striking single-storey 1500 sq m extension to the main school building alongside extensive internal remodelling.
Externally, upgrades to car parks, a new drop-off area, and the construction of a cutting-edge 1500 sq m sports barn are set to enhance the school’s overall sports amenities and visitor experience.
Internally, a key highlight of the project lies in the transformative redesign of the technology department, which features a central corridor linking various teaching areas while seamlessly integrating with the newly constructed extension.
Darren Lee, commercial director at Conlon Construction, said: “This multifaceted project necessitated seamless collaboration among our teams, on-site staff, Cheshire East Council, and neighbouring residents.
“The journey to completion underscores the strength of our partnerships, adeptly addressing any complexities and the logistical challenges of systematically closing parts of the school, to ultimately ensure minimal disruption to students’ experiences.”
New sports barn
He added: “Our extensive education experience equips us with a deep understanding of fundamental best practice principles and the importance of meeting critical deadlines. It has been immensely rewarding to deliver a project that bolsters the capacity of this highly sought-after high school.”
Ruth Powley, head teacher at Wilmslow High School, said: “It’s been a long challenging project, but we are really delighted with the outcomes for our students and the Wilmslow community.”
Claire Williamson, Cheshire East Council’s director of education, strong start and integration, said: “This is really good news for families in Cheshire East – and delivers an additional 300 pupil places on site at Wilmslow High School.
“Enhancing education provision in the borough is one of the council’s key priorities and it is very pleasing to see this substantial and complex multimillion-pound project come to successful fruition.”
