BAM Construct UK has secured the £10.25 million contract to regenerate Chiltern Hills Academy in Buckinghamshire, which is sponsored by the Oxford Diocese & Buckinghamshire County Council. It is the second of two Buckinghamshire schools contracts announced today. The contractor will build a new wing for the Chesham academy and carry out significant refurbishment work on its existing estate. The scheme will create an integrated building with a large, light-flooded atrium providing an open-plan learning resource centre as well as new kitchen and dining facilities. The academy, which specialises in design and the performing arts, will have a capacity of 990 students aged 11 to 18. Pupils studying technology, art and digital design will be able to use modern facilities in the new wing, whilst a well-equipped sports hall will replace the existing gym. It is located on the edge of an area of outstanding natural beauty, and BAM has carefully selected materials in conjunction with the local conservation board. BAM Construction South East Ltd based in St Albans Herts will start on site in August 2012 and completion is scheduled for the end of 2013. BAM construction director Bob Sanders said:
'It is a great pleasure for BAM to be involved with this exciting project to create a truly modern and inspirational learning facility for children and young people in Chesham. 'With the new facilities and the larger reception area, the academy’s buildings will be even more welcoming and of greater benefit to both pupils and local community groups. 'BAM worked hard to understand the unique aims of Chiltern Hills Academy, and is delighted to be able to use its experience to help it achieve those aims.' Sue Imbriano, strategic director for children and young people’s services at Buckinghamshire County Council, said:
'This is an important development not just for the school but for the whole community.
'The County Council is delighted that the project has reached this stage and we look forward to its successful completion in partnership with the Oxford Diocese, BAM and the school.' BAM is also building the Aylesbury Vale Academy for Buckinghamshire County Council. The contractor delivered Cressex Community School for the Council, and is competing for the Buckinghamshire University Technical College.
