During the planning stages D&D were delighted to assist the architects Integrated Design Consultants (IDC) with comprehensive design details and specification advice for incorporation into the final scheme.
The dome, complete with a decorative leaf pattern around the base and internal support steelwork, is fabricated in a golden yellow colour from pigment suppliers Llwellyn Ryland. The inner domed ceiling will be a white matt finish and images will be projected onto it. All works will therefore be factory finished with an integral colour meaning less time on site due to no wet trades and low ongoing maintenance.
Installed in two phases to accommodate the main contractors shell and fitout works programme, the traditional topping out ceremony took place Friday 16th July 2010 where invited guests were amazed at the ornate dome structure constructed at ground level in preparation to be crane lifted straight into place by the D&D site team and Ainscough Crane Hire. Pictured in front of the dome are Allan Curtis (wearing their traditional head scarf) with Tim Brown, Regional Managing Director of Mansell and Bob Still, Mansell Project Manager.
This £15M expansion from 4FE to 6 FE includes substantial internal alterations, the construction of a new 2 storey Learning Resources Centre and a new 3 storey teaching block. As the school remains in operation there has been a keen focus on fast track buildability to minimise day to day disruption to the occupants.