After a process of collaboration between the designers at GRADONARCHITECTURE and the local planning authority, the latest approval from Northumberland County Council means external work can now begin on-site at the £4.5million pound development.

Following the withdrawal of previous academic sponsor, Bright Tribe Trust Council and OFSTED reports, which have continued to seek for improvements at the school, the approval will form an integral part of the school’s transformation and future success.

The plans will greatly improve the functionality, design, and security of the site through several internal and external changes. A redesign of the existing entrance to the site will include an enlarged coach drop off with safer DDA access, a concentrated carpark and secure pedestrian access. Internally, the site will benefit from upgraded facilities and an improved spatial arrangement with a relocated library, learning resource centre, sixth form area and performing arts spaces. The former design and technology block will also be refurbished to create a new Vocational Centre that will boost future opportunities for the pupils and community alike. The centre will offer a greater choice for the pupils – with subjects ranging from catering to construction, and the facility will also function as an out-of-hours adult education centre.  

The planning approval follows a number of GRADONARCHITECTURE’s educational projects currently on-site, with work at New Delaval, Otterburn and Greenhaugh primary schools set for completion in the coming months.

Lead Technical Director on the project, Graeme Kirkley has said, “We are delighted that we have received planning approval and can now begin external works on this project. Having worked collaboratively with the School and Council, the redesign considers all requirements and will cater for a greater intake of pupils, provide better access and integrate with the wider community of Haydon Bridge, with the provision of adult learning opportunities and facilities to support the regeneration of the area.”