Project Description
Wollaston School in Wellingborough instructed us to complete a modular school extension in Northamptonshire, East Midlands.
Wollaston School was struggling with space and not enough classrooms for their pupils. So they turned to us for a cost-effective way to achieve this increased capacity. In brief, they required a hassle-free extension to provide 2 larger sized classrooms while incorporating a new office area and a changing facility, including a shower.
After a rigorous tender process, our modular build proposal was chosen. We provided an otherwise impossible solution, utilising a difficult patch of land (a disused swimming pool) that came well within budget. Read on to see more about this modular school extension in Northamptonshire, East Midlands.
WOLLASTON SCHOOL MODULAR EXTENSION, EAST MIDLANDS
The Brief
“Wollaston School were struggling with space and lack of classroom availability. We were looking for a cost effective way to increase capacity. We were also looking for a build that could give us a large classroom accommodation and include an office with separate bathroom. After a rigorous tender process we explored a modular build in partnership with MPH. This gave us great value for money and meant we could also use a patch of land that otherwise may not have been suitable. The build and project itself was one of the easiest we have ever done. MPH were very efficient and stuck to budget. Completing on time and within budget has been a great success for us and now our students have additional space to learn”
Business Manager, Wollaston School
WOLLASTON SCHOOL MODULAR BUILDING EXTENSION
DESIGN STRATEGY & CHALLENGES
There were many obstacles to overcome with this project. But the main difficulties we faced were due to the chosen site – it was the site of filled, unused swimming. So it was now the site of an overgrown, concrete raft. However, we successfully overcame these challenges to complete a modular extension that included 2 classrooms, an office and changing facilities, including a shower.
MODULAR SCHOOL EXTENSION ISSUE 1
ISSUE: How to create stable foundations over an unused and filled swimming pool site.
SOLUTION: The design included core drilling of the existing slab and engaging a Structural Engineer to design a suitable foundation.
MODULAR SCHOOL EXTENSION ISSUE 2:
ISSUE: The site was unsightly. It was overgrown with vegetation, had degrading fencing and crumbling walls in disrepair.
SOLUTION: We worked with Wollaston School to both develop a modular build design and new landscaping. Using Revit 3D visuals, we created a suitable landscape concept. This landscaping included new fence lines and perimeter paths, which also improved level access to other parts of the school.
MODULAR SCHOOL EXTENSION ISSUE 3:
ISSUE: There were major access issues, both for students and building teams – the only access to the rear of the site was via steps.
SOLUTION: As part of our landscaping design and execution, the new external works and perimeter paths improved level access and compliance with Building Regulations Part M access to and use of buildings.
MODULAR SCHOOL EXTENSION ISSUE 4:
ISSUE: How to integrate the modular extension with the existing school.
SOLUTION: We fully integrated the 2 classrooms, an office and changing facilities with a shower into the main school infrastructure. This included alarm systems, IT infrastructure and data systems. Also, to complement the existing school building look and aesthetics, the modular building was externally clad with brick tiles over the insulated render.
NEED HELP WITH YOUR MODULAR BUILDING PROJECT?
We custom-build modular, sectional and portable buildings across the country. So, if you’d like to discuss your project anywhere in the UK, get in touch.
