Project update: Armfield Academy

Contractors will start piling work on Monday in readiness for new buildings as part of the Armfield Academy in South Shore.

Meanwhile work on an extension and refurbishment to the former Arnold Primary School is progressing on target.

Those buildings on the south side of Arnold Avenue will be ready in September to accommodate the first intake of 160 year 7 pupils, 60 reception pupils and a nursery class.

The new three storey premises on the north side of the site are scheduled to be completed by next year.

Some of the old Arnold building are being saved.

The design and technology block, the Memorial Hall and the Sports Hall will all be refurbished.

Demolition of the main three storey block of the old school was completed earlier this year.

A car park on the site has also been finished and is currently being used by the contractors.

The Fylde Coast Academy Trust (FCAT) will run the school, being paid for by the Education and Schools Funding Agency.

In the first year there will be 160 Year 7 pupils, 60 reception pupils and a nursery class.

John Topping, community relations and estates lead for FCAT, said: “We are very pleased with the progress being made by our contractor Conlon’s.

“Piling will begin on the north side of Arnold Avenue on Monday.

“We anticipate more machines coming on site, and the work will be done as quickly as possible.

“We have regular updates to keep the community informed on the progress we are making.

“The new car park is finished and that will get cars off Arnold Avenue which has always been an issue.

“We are looking forward to welcoming our first pupils in September.”

Work on the primary school extension at Armfield Academy