Multimillion-pound school plans get go-ahead
Space ArchitectsA school with buildings no longer fit for purpose is set for a multimillion-pound overhaul with a new teaching block, swimming pool and sports facilities.
Sunderland City Council approved the plans for Thornhill Academy at a meeting on Monday.
The proposals, linked to the government's School Rebuilding Programme, include demolishing parts of the school alongside refurbishments to the sports hall and upgraded outdoor sports facilities.
Principal Liam Clark told the council the school struggled with flooding and building repairs to the "substandard facilities" on the ageing site.
He said the project aimed to secure "the very best facilities for the children of Sunderland".
Submitted by the Department for Education and building firm Willmott Dixon, the application also includes a new football pitch and an athletics track.
Space ArchitectsThe new swimming pool and changing facilities would be available for community use and the on-site parking would be increased.
A representative for Willmott Dixon said the redevelopment would "ensure the school can continue to provide a high standard of education in new, modern fit for purpose accommodation".
During a public consultation on the plans, concerns were raised by some nearby residents of Belle Vue Park about potential impact on residential amenity.
While acknowledging that the new teaching block would be moved closer to homes, council planners said a "substantial distance" would still be retained between the two sites.
The redevelopment is expected to take place in phases with the delivery of the new school first, followed by the demolition of old buildings and the construction of new playing fields.
