Construction has begun on a £5m extension project for Rumworth School in Bolton.
The initiative aims to enhance the facility’s capacity and resources for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) students.
Work Begins on Extension
Construction has commenced on a £5m project to expand Rumworth School in Bolton. The expansion aims to increase the school’s capacity by 140 pupils.
Overview of Rumworth School
Rumworth School, located on Armadale Road, provides education for children aged 11 to 18. It consistently receives outstanding ratings from Ofsted.
Key Project Stakeholders
The expansion is being managed by Clear Futures, a partner of Bolton Council. The project is being delivered by Preston-based Eric Wright Construction.
Cassidy + Ashton is providing planning and design consultancy services. They have engaged extensively with key stakeholders to create the design.
New Facilities
The new two-storey teaching block will house 14 additional classrooms. Several large rooms for group activities will also be included.
Additional welfare rooms, resource spaces, and hygiene suites will be on each floor. This will enhance the school’s infrastructure significantly.
Environmental Targets
The new facilities will aim for a 10% improvement over current environmental standards. This will be achieved through air source heat pumps and improved thermal performance measures.
Simon Barlow, associate architect at Cassidy + Ashton, stated that the building design offers efficient and accessible teaching and ancillary spaces.
Social Impact and Job Creation
The project will create new teaching jobs upon completion. It will also offer apprenticeship opportunities and educational support sessions.
Sam Edwards, assistant project manager at Clear Futures, highlighted the social value the project will bring, contributing to community growth.
Completion Timeline
The construction work is expected to be completed by spring 2025. Mark Green, operations manager at Eric Wright Construction, expressed optimism about the progress through the summer holiday period.
Council Support
Bolton Council’s Executive Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Martin Donaghy, stated, “Every child in Bolton deserves the best possible start in life.” He emphasised the importance of the new and expanded facilities in providing top-notch resources.
The council remains committed to supporting projects that foster educational growth and development.
The £5m expansion project at Rumworth School is set to significantly enhance its educational offerings.
With a completion date set for spring 2025, the new facilities will provide much-needed space and resources for the growing student population.