Schools programme advised by law firm

A LAW firm has been appointed to advise a council on a £150m Building Schools for the Future (BSF) scheme.

The Wave 5 project will create a ‘Learning Campus’ which aims to improve education facilities, benefiting both teachers and students, with the latest technology and learning resources.

Plans include the rebuilding and remodelling of seven high schools in St Helens, one of which is on site ahead of the main programme, and a £30m new build academy catering for approximately 1,100 young people.

The programme includes two £5m purpose-built specialist units for young people with special needs at Mill Green Learning Campus and Penkford.

Dickinson Dees has been appointed to advise St Helens Council in Lancashire on the schemes.

Kevin Robertson, partner at Dickinson Dees, said: “The inclusion of a complex needs school in this project is an unusual element to a BSF scheme. St Helens Council has put together an excellent scheme to deliver substantial education provisions for years to come.

“Local children will soon have access to state-of-the-art facilities which will also serve to support the ongoing regeneration and modernisation of St Helens.”

Mike Foy, BSF project director at St Helens Council, said: “Dickinson Dees’ previous BSF experience was fundamental to its appointment. The team’s in-depth experience in the BSF project arena will give us the knowledge and understanding to enable a smooth procurement process.

“Officers are now working hard to deliver one of the most ambitious and exciting projects the borough will ever see.”