School investment set to make ‘lasting impact’

A £17,000 investment promises to make a “huge difference” to pupils at a West Yorkshire specialist school by improving access and safety.

Esh Construction has transformed the car park at Highbury School in Rastrick, near Elland, improving access and transport arrangements for pupils, staff and visitors.

The specialist SEND school relies heavily on dedicated transport, with around 90 pupils arriving by minibus each day and many remaining in their wheelchairs during their journeys.

Previously, potholes and an uneven surface created accessibility and safety challenges and could make journeys uncomfortable for pupils.

The project has included resurfacing, repairs to damaged areas, reconfigured parking arrangements and new line markings, providing smoother vehicle access and improved traffic management.

Debbie Sweet, head teacher at Highbury School, said: “This has been something the school has wanted to achieve for many years, but funding pressures meant it was difficult to prioritise.

“The difference the new car park has made is significant. 

“Many of our pupils arrive by specialist transport and some are profoundly disabled or wheelchair users. 

“These improvements make a real difference to their daily experience at school, while also enhancing safety and increasing parking capacity for staff and visitors.”

Megan Simpson, social value manager at Bowburn-headquartered Esh Construction, added: “This project is a great example of how social value can create a lasting impact within local communities.

“Through our work on the Elland Access Package, we were able to provide additional investment that addresses a real need at Highbury School. 

“The improvements will benefit pupils, staff, visitors and transport providers for many years to come, while helping to create a safer and more accessible environment for everyone using the site.”

The work, valued at almost £17,000, was funded through the YOR4Good Fund linked to Esh’s delivery of the Elland Access Package for Calderdale Council.

Funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the wider scheme is improving walking and cycling routes between Elland and West Vale.

Councillor Darren Commons, cabinet member for highways and transport at Calderdale Council, added: “As part of our wider investment in improving transport and connectivity across Elland and West Vale, it’s fantastic to see additional benefits being delivered for the local community through Esh's social value commitments.

“The improvements at Highbury School were much needed and will make a huge difference. 

“It’s an excellent example of partnership working delivering added value at no extra cost to the public purse.”

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