Key stakeholders in the £2.9 million project to build a 40-place Alternative Provision in Barrow have been visiting the Channelside site this week, to witness the completion of the foundation and groundwork stage.

Following the preparatory work to excavate the ground before structural building can begin, contractors are now working on the raft preparation including installing steel reinforcements.

This work will see the completion of everything required at ground level, readying the site for the delivery of the pre-built modular sections of the school structure in June and September.

Following her visit Sue Sanderson, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said:

“It’s been great to witness the next stage of the project and I’m excited to see the structure taking shape from next month.  Once the modules are in place, we will really be able to picture what the new facilities will look like and visualise how this modern, inclusive provision will benefit our young people and their families.”

Lisa Balderstone, Head Teacher at South Cumbria Pupil Referral Service, of which the new provision will be a part of, said:

“It’s becoming a reality now after much planning and work to get the early stages of the project underway.  It is a positive step to see the construction happening and see where future students will continue their educational journey, in this provision.”

Cllr Peter Thornton, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Assets, said:

“Completion of the groundworks is an important milestone so that things can move on to the next building phase.  The delivery of the modules in the coming weeks will be an exciting time in this modular method of building, where most of the construction work is done off site and progress should be seen very quickly.”

This provision will work alongside other education providers to support up to 40 young people whose needs can be met in this setting, with support provided to access the curriculum.

This will enable children and young people to be educated within their communities in an adaptable building.

Works will continue throughout 2024, with the school expected to open in Spring 2025.