Modular projects add to NE move to MMCs

[TWO MODULAR SCHOOL BUILDS in Northumberland have acted to drive forward the trend towards MMCs in the education sector in the North East. A £1.2m turnkey modular design-and-build project for St Benet Biscop Catholic Academy in Bedlington (above) was delivered in record time, and a second £1.2m build has completed for Bedlington West End School (below).

Working alongside the project team, including East Yorkshire-based modular off-site construction specialists M-AR and Faithful+Gould, who acted as project managers, quantity surveyors and principal designer, Leedsbased Edward Architecture delivered the projects, which were secured through the CCS (Crown Commercial Services) framework.

Following the demolition of an existing swimming pool building, St Benet Biscop Catholic Academy now has a new permanent modularbuilt school comprising six new classrooms with brick façade, new facilities and external landscaping. The school provides a bright, spacious and positive environment for pupils.

A new modular design-and-build project for Bedlington West End School to replace a former dining hall has also been completed, delivering two new classrooms over two storeys, an assembly hall and the school kitchen.

Edward Architecture’s scope of works was extensive – from the initial brief through to the design concept, planning phase, architectural planning, management role and site works.

Graham Edward, managing director of Edward Architecture, said: “We are delighted to deliver two modular design-and-build schools in the North East alongside our project partners. St Benet Biscop School has truly has been a quick turnaround project, testament to the beauty of modular build which is both cost-effective and delivers fast, quality construction with minimal disruption.

“Gone are the days of ugly pre-fab huts; there is now a growing trend for schools which favour cost-effective, modern modular-built educational space which provides light and airy classrooms to support learning and can also be moved to support changing future school populations.”

Wayne Yeomans, head of sales and marketing at M-AR, commented: “These projects have been delivered in record time from the tender award. It highlights the close partnership between the project stakeholders to overcome logistics and the need for an accelerated design process in such a challenging pandemic climate. We are delighted to be part of the team that delivered these projects to create fantastic, fresh learning environments for the schoolchildren.” q