MP gets building work underway at Parkwood Academy

David Blunkett MP has cut the first piece of turf for a multi-million pound building project to transform E-ACT’s Parkwood Academy in Sheffield.

Work on the new purpose-built Academy buildings– which escaped cuts in the school building programme – starts in earnest with a view to opening just ahead of the Olympic Games in 2012.

The turf-cutting ceremony took place at the Academy, which is sponsored by leading education provider E-ACT, in Penrith Road, Shirecliffe, on Friday 28 January 2011.

The new building’s contract was awarded to VINCI Construction UK, and will boast state-of-the art learning and community facilities, and is being constructed on the existing Academy site.

On completion, the newly-built Academy designed by HLM Architects – which includes Languages and Sports as its specialisms – will include new teaching blocks, a fitness suite, gymnasium and a synthetic flood lit ‘MUGA’ all-weather pitch with new 11-a-side football facilities.

Mr Blunkett, a former Education Secretary, said: “I’m very pleased that investment in this important project has been secured and that I will have the privilege of cutting the first turf. It is a great relief that despite the enormous cuts in public spending, the academy project was ahead of the game and was spared the axe. It’s vital that we continue to develop our educational facilities for future generations and I look forward to joining the celebrations again when the building is completed next year.”

Mike Westerdale, Principal of Parkwood Academy, said: “The new Academy building will be a great place to learn. Our vision is to create a true ‘learning village’ with excellent facilities that will be used by the whole community which alongside other local facilities will form part of the regeneration of the whole area.”

Lucy Plumridge, Architectural Director at HLM Architects the lead designers for the academy, said: “As well as serving a practical purpose, the new buildings and facilities at Parkwood Academy have been designed to inspire the pupils and staff who use them. The flexible teaching spaces and extensive sports facilities will help students gain extra skills and qualifications and the academy is set to be an important educational and community resource.”

Published: 02/02/2011