City firms get contract to build free school

TWO Preston firms have been appointed to deliver a new primary school in Ancoats, an area on the fringes of Manchester city centre undergoing major redevelopment.

New Islington Free School is being built by Conlon Construction, assisted by architecture, building surveying and town planning practice, Cassidy + Ashton which is supporting the project throughout the detail design and build programme.

Commissioned through the Education Funding Agency (EFA), the school will be two-form entry and accommodate 420 pupils.

The project will more than double the current footprint of the Ofsted ‘outstanding’-rated school.

The school will comprise 14 classrooms, a sports hall, dining room, kitchen and reception play area. It is being built off site using modular construction methods to ensure the facility is ready for occupation in September 2016.

Michael Conlon, chairman at Conlon Construction, said: “New Islington is a major regeneration area and we’re pleased to be doing our bit to transform the landscape and provide a facility that will better serve families in the locality.

“We have extensive experience in the education sector and will be utilising this to deliver a quality facility that is fit for purpose and provide the school with room to grow.”

Cassidy + Ashton  chairman Alistair Bainesadded said: “We’re thrilled to be involved in such a high-profile scheme in the heart of Manchester.
“This project will transform a derelict site less than half a mile away from the school’s current location to create a bespoke new home that will house modern facilities for pupils and staff.”