PLANS have been put forward to modernise Appleby Grammar School in a significant building project.
If approved, the redevelopment will involve the construction of a three-storey teaching block, while refurbishing the original 1887 school building and the 1927 science building.
Additionally, the original school building and science building will be connected by a modern walkway, and the remainder of the existing buildings will be demolished.
The sports hall, however, will be retained.
The application was submitted to planners at Westmorland and Furness Council by DPP on behalf of Morgan Sindall and the Department for Education, on August 18.
“The proposed development will result in a significant amount of investment into education facilities at Appleby Grammar School, which will ultimately benefit both existing and future pupils and their families in the local area by providing knowledge and skills required for future employment opportunities and career prospects,” the planning statement reads.
“It will deliver modern and fit-for-purpose educational facilities which are vital to replace the existing outdated buildings which have reached the end of their lifespan and are no longer capable of delivering a modern standard of education for pupils and energy efficiency.”
The standalone three-storey teaching block is then proposed to the immediate west of the original school building, to the north of the existing sports hall.
The refurbishment is structured around reducing overcapacity, addressing maintenance issues and safeguarding concerns, and “delivering modern teaching facilities to ensure continuity of high-quality education”.
According to the plans, the existing 1927 science building will be refurbished to deliver music practice rooms.
The linked walkway is proposed to comprise office and admin space, the sick bay, and the main reception area.
A public consultation regarding the plans was held on July 16.
“In terms of the new standalone teaching block, it is proposed that the ground floor will comprise of a dining room and food prep area… food rooms, art rooms, assembly hall, activity studio, changing rooms and toilets.
“The first floor will comprise of classrooms, staff rooms, offices and toilets. The second floor will comprise of classrooms, science laboratories, staff workrooms and toilets,” the application reads.
The plans also highlight the economic benefits the proposal will bring during the construction period.
A new multi-use games area (MUGA) and hard play space are envisaged in the northeast of the site.
The existing tennis courts adjacent to the sports hall and the grass playing pitches will be retained.
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