Work is set to resume on the multi-million pound project for Ysgol Llyn Derw in the Vale of Glamorgan, as a new construction firm has been appointed to take over the project. The initial construction work came to a halt after the previous firm, ISG Construction Ltd, announced its administration in September. The Vale of Glamorgan Council has now selected Morgan Sindall Construction to continue and complete the school project, situated in Cosmeston, Penarth. The appointed firm is currently devising a work plan before recommencing the construction.
The leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Cllr Lis Burnett, expressed her delight at having Morgan Sindall onboard for the project. She acknowledged the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the collapse of ISG but remains optimistic about the future progress of the school. The council’s cabinet members had previously approved plans to expand Ysgol y Deri with the addition of the new site in April 2021. This new build, costing £22 million, aims to accommodate an extra 150 pupils with special educational needs.
Rob Williams, the area director of Morgan Sindall Construction in Wales, emphasised the significance of working on Ysgol Llyn Derw and supporting the educational needs of the community. The school, a prominent special needs institution that featured in the BBC documentary ‘A Special School’, is an essential facility for the area. The expansion plans for Ysgol y Deri were deemed necessary due to the inadequacy of existing facilities, such as limited dining space and hygiene rooms for pupils.
The design of the school grounds includes outdoor spaces integrated into the surrounding landscape, offering various areas for academic, recreational, and environmental activities. The two-storey building will incorporate environmentally friendly features like solar panels, green roofs, and a hybrid generator to enhance sustainability. The project aims to inspire and support pupils while promoting biodiversity within the school environment.
The appointment of the new construction firm marks a significant step towards the completion of Ysgol Llyn Derw and the expansion of Ysgol y Deri, catering to the increasing demand for special education facilities in the region. The close collaboration between Morgan Sindall Construction and the Vale of Glamorgan Council signifies a commitment to delivering a high-quality learning environment for students with additional needs.
Overall, the reinitiation of work on the school project represents a positive development for the local community, with the assurance of improved facilities and educational opportunities for pupils in the Vale of Glamorgan. The project’s focus on sustainability and biodiversity aligns with modern educational standards, providing a holistic learning environment for the next generation of students. As construction resumes under the new contractor, the future looks bright for Ysgol Llyn Derw and Ysgol y Deri, ensuring a positive impact on the community for years to come.