Green light for new 3-16 Catholic school build
The new 3-16 Catholic School in Rhyl has moved another step closer with the news that Planning permission has been granted for the new school building and associated site works. Pupils from Ysgol Mair and Blessed Edward Jones (pictured) came together to celebrate
this news that will see them educated in brand new facilities for the 2019/2020 academic year.
Denbighshire has also welcomed confirmation from the Welsh Government that the Final Business Case for the new 3-16 Catholic school in Rhyl has been approved. The project will be funded in partnership by the Council and the Welsh Government, through its 21st Century Schools and Education Capital Programme.
This reflects the corporate priority in Denbighshire to invest in the future of children and young people in the county.
The new 3-16 school, for the Diocese of Wrexham, will replace Ysgol Mair/ St. Mary’s primary Catholic school and Blessed Edward Jones Catholic high school. The new school would be an English medium school for 420 full time pupils aged 3-11 years old and 500 pupils aged 11-16.
Education secretary Kirsty Williams said: “Our national mission is to raise standards, reduce the attainment gap and deliver an education system that is a source of national pride and confidence. Our 21st Century Schools and Education Programme plays a key part in this and is the largest investment in our schools and colleges since the 1960s.”
“I am delighted the Welsh Government’s investment in this £24m project is having a positive impact on education and learning in Denbighshire. The new school will be a vital resource for the whole community.”
Bishop Peter M. Brignall of the Diocese of Wrexham said: “I am delighted another significant step forward for this project has been achieved. This exciting proposal of a new and innovative 3-16 school in Rhyl for Denbighshire and the Diocese of Wrexham will greatly enhance the learning opportunities for our young people in the facilities, resources and ethos provided by the on-going and fruitful partnership of Welsh Government, Local Authority and the Catholic Church.”
Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Cabinet Lead Member for Education, Children and Young People and the Welsh Language, said: “This is a significant milestone for the brand new build for the new 3-16 school. We look forward to continuing to work with the Diocese of Wrexham on this project as the Council continue to invest in improving the learning environment for the children and young people of the County.”
Kier construction have been appointed as the main contractor and some initial works are already taking place at the schools with some essential and limited tree felling and early demolition of a part of a block at Blessed Edward Jones.
Work is due to begin on the whole site in May with work expected to be completed on the new build by Autumn 2019.