Contractor appointed for Dartford high school

BAM Construction has been appointed to build a £29M high school in Dartford, Kent.

Following a pre-construction period, Stone Lodge School is now making good progress. The team has already conducted ecological investigations, translocated wildlife and diverted public rights of way. 

BAM said the new school benefits from its integrated capabilities with BAM Design and BAM Services Engineering working on the three-storey building, delivering the mechanical and electrical elements.

BAM Construction Manager Dan Brenchley said: “By bringing more of the work in-house we increase co-ordination and reduce risks, which helps us deliver the programme for the school and it enhances our ability to use digital techniques and find modular solutions.”

Currently, Dartford has a shortage of secondary places. At present, the school is operating from temporary premises. Once complete, it will become home to around 1,200 students and an additional 250 or so sixth form students. A separate sports block and external pitches are part of the new facilities.

BAM’s work also includes the creation of an access road, which will enable the development of a housing estate nearby. BAM’s operations take account of the revised operating procedures necessary to be COVID-19-safe.

Handover of the school is expected in 2022.