New school nominated for major design award

[05/04/06 B&NES]


New school nominated for major design award

A new primary school in Bath & North East Somerset has been nominated for a prestigious design award.

Trinity C of E Primary School in Woodborough Lane, Radstock, has been put forward for the 2006 Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Awards. This is an annual design competition for new buildings with extremely high architectural standards that make a substantial contribution to the local environment.

Trinity, which can accommodate 210 pupils, opened in September 2005 and is one of two new, purpose-built schools for Radstock. Both provide a high-quality environment in which children can learn, and a range of extra facilities that enable members of the community to use them much more fully than traditional school buildings.

The submission to RIBA by NVB Architects draws attention to the school’s “innovative, inspirational and contemporary” design, and includes positive comments from staff. In a survey, one member of staff commented: "The internal corridor creates a superb sense of space and calm,” while another said: "The building lifts my spirits - I feel proud and fortunate to be working in such a beautiful environment".

This news comes as the Government announces new funding to rebuild and renovate 50 per cent of primary schools in England. Bath & North East Somerset Council estimates that it could receive £4m every two years during the 15-year programme, which is due to start across England in 2009.

Richard Page, Director of NVB Architects, said: “NVB Architects are delighted to put forward this scheme for the award in recognition not only of the quality of buildings but also the commitment shown by Bath & North East Somerset Council towards innovative sustainable solutions, both of which have been extremely well received by staff and pupils.”

Cllr Jonathan Gay, Executive Member for Children’s Services, said: “I’m very excited that this wonderful new school has been nominated for a prestigious design award.”

“Bath & North East Somerset Council is proud of the positive impact that these important new facilities are having on the children and wider community of Radstock.”

The winners of the RIBA Awards will be announced at a gala dinner, at the London Hilton Hotel, on Friday 23 June 2006.