PLANS have been submitted for the complete redevelopment of a Bournemouth school.
The major proposals for Oak Academy secondary school have been tabled by contractor Kier Construction Limited.
The site is one of the first 50 across the country and the only school in the county to be prioritised for a rebuild by the Department for Education (DfE).
Kier’s plans would see a phased demolition of the existing school buildings, excluding the LeAF Studio School sports hall.
If the scheme is approved by BCP Council, a new single building for all subjects at Oak Academy would be constructed on the Duck Lane land.
A planning statement submitted on behalf of Kier by consultants Terence O’Rourke Ltd said while there would be a decrease in floor space, the proposed building provides a “more logical and efficient use of the site, replacing the current rather convoluted building layout”.
At present Oak Academy, which is part of the Ambitions Academies Trust, caters for around 500 pupils between the ages of 11 and 16 across the West Howe and Bear Cross.
The proposed development would allow the school’s size to increase to 900 pupils. Accommodating this increase would require an increase from the 100 full time equivalent staff at present to 150.
“The new building and its external spaces have been carefully designed to meet the specific requirements of the school,” the planning statement said.
“Close working between the school, the DfE, Kier and the project design team has sought to ensure that the new investment at the site is optimised in terms of the benefit to the outcome and learning experience of young people attending the school.”
The new building would have a “splayed H-shaped arrangement” and be up to three-storeys high.
A design and access statement by architectural firm Jestico + Whiles said: “The four-wing design of the school building creates a series of spaces which are highly practical for the functioning of the school.
“The new entrance plaza will provide a welcoming approach to the new building.
“The creation of two new courtyards adjacent to the heart of the school will provide an inspiring hub for the pupils to socialise and learn, as well as providing useful outdoor dining space. The building also creates a separation to the north of the site where servicing and deliveries can be contained.”
The school playing fields would be retained while the existing multi-use games areas would be removed and a new three-court facility built in its place near a new changing rooms building and the sports hall.
BCP Council planning officers are currently assessing the scheme, with a public consultation open until September 23.
As reported, the school’s new building could be completed as soon as 2024 subject to planning approval.
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