Eric Wright to construct 61,000 sq ft school in Burnley

Eric Wright Construction, part of Preston-headquartered building firm Eric Wright Group, has been chosen to deliver a multi-million pound design and build project in Burnley.

The 81-week scheme, commissioned on behalf of Chapel Street Community Schools Trust through the Education Funding Authority (EFA) Regional Contractors Framework, comprises a new ‘Super Block’ free school on the site of the now-demolished Habergham High School.

To achieve cost savings and ensure completion by April 2017, Eric Wright will re-use crushed demolition materials in the construction of the new three-level, 60,655 sq ft school.

The news follows a decision not to refurbish and extend the former premises after shallow worked coal seams were discovered below the site, making it unsuitable for an overhaul.

Eric Wright Construction’s managing director, John Wilson, said: “We have leveraged the experience and technical expertise within the Eric Wright Group to take a pragmatic approach to designing this scheme that addresses the EFA’s requirements, the trust’s preferences and the challenges of the site.

“Once completed, the school will be an important addition to the education choices available to families in Burnley and we look forward to handing the building over.”

Once complete, the school will accommodate up to 450 secondary and 200 sixth form students.

Chapel Street Community Schools Trust headteacher Miss Vicky Povey commented: “Although we have faced some tough challenges in getting this project pulled together, we are delighted with the resulting design for our new school.

“Eric Wright Construction has kept us informed at every step of the way and worked hard to ensure that our comments and preferences are truly reflected in the design for the new Burnley High School and Sixth Form.”

The project is designed by JM Architects, which has an office in Manchester.