Builders chosen for education-leisure campus project in Ponteland

Northumberland County Council has chosen a building firm to deliver its proposed schools and leisure campus in Ponteland.

Kier Construction will create two new school buildings and a leisure centre with a swimming pool, fitness suite, badminton courts, full-sized 3G pitch, library and other facilities.

Ponteland’s current leisure centre will be demolished as part of the development, which will also create a new fire station.

Meanwhile, temporary accommodation at the existing high school is being expanded for additional students in the September 2019 intake.

Kier Construction’s managing director for Scotland and North East England, Brian McQuade, said: “Working collaboratively with Northumberland County Council, we are looking forward to delivering the Ponteland development that will bring huge benefits to the local area.

“We have a strong track record in delivering first-class educational and local community buildings and our aim is to create, with the client team, learning environments in which students can thrive.”

He added: “Throughout the duration of the project, we will work with the local supply chain and look to offer training and job opportunities as well as engage with residents to ensure that they see local benefits.”

Kier was awarded the contract following an 11-week tender process.

Northumberland County Council Leader Peter Jackson commented: “I am delighted the contract has been awarded to Kier Construction who are local to North East and we are confident that we can now guarantee the best possible value for money for our residents and communities as well as growing the local economy through the construction contract.

“We know the community was delighted with the approved design for the development and ensuring top quality learning environments are available for our young people is a key priority for us.”

He added: “This exciting project will provide modern facilities for students for years into the future.”

The development is due for completion by September 2020.

The header image shows (L-R) Mark Tweedie (Active Northumberland), Lynn Blain (Ponteland Primary), Peter Jackson (Northumberland County Council), Bryan McQuade (Kier) and Jim Balkwill (Ponteland Community High School).