Topic People, Projects
Date 13 Dec 2024
Galliford Try Building North West celebrated the halfway point of the Bolton University Collegiate School (UCS) project with a structure signing ceremony.
Attendees included representatives from Galliford Try’s Building North West business, the Department for Education (DfE), technical advisors Mott MacDonald, architects AHR, multi-academy trust, Quest Trust, and members of the school community. Two students from Bolton UCS symbolically led the signing of the pre-cast structure, reflecting the project’s collaborative spirit.
The £17.6 million extension will deliver state-of-the-art teaching facilities, including a dining area, kitchen, sports hall, and activity studio. Additionally, 1,086 sqm of light refurbishment to existing areas of the campus will support the school’s transition from a vocational to an academic curriculum.
Now in week 38 of the programme, the project is on schedule. The superstructure is nearing completion, the teaching block is watertight and glazing and brickwork are advancing well. The school’s new facilities are set to open in September 2025.
Galliford Try has prioritised social value, engaging extensively with the local community. Highlights include over 13 school and college visits, on-site engagement with more than 60 students, and over 100 young people in the community. Four T Level placements have been delivered or are ongoing, with two more starting in January 2025. The team also donated fencing to a local group, supported the ‘Ten Tin Challenge’ for Back Up North West, and volunteered at Bolton Lads and Girls Club (BLGC).
The project earned full marks in its first Considerate Constructors Scheme assessment, reflecting its high standards in safety, respect and environmental care.
Darren Parker, Managing Director for Galliford Try Building North West, commented: “This milestone reflects the exceptional collaboration and expertise of our teams, showcasing the project’s success so far. We’re particularly proud of the positive impact this project has on both UCS students and the wider community. Creating a lasting legacy is at the heart of what we do, and this scheme exemplifies that commitment.”
Andrew Baker, Project Manager for the DfE, noted: “Reaching this stage is a testament to the teamwork ethos of everyone involved. Involving students in the celebration made it even more special.”
Tonianne Hewitt, Chief Financial Officer for Quest Trust, said: “The new facilities will transform the learning experience for our students. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in bringing this vision to life.”
Martyn Frackelton, Principal Account Leader for Mott MacDonald, added: “Delivering a facility of this quality on a constrained site adjacent to a live school has been a rewarding challenge. The teamwork has been exceptional, and we look forward to completion.”