News: Wildgoose projects progress in Rotherham

Wildgoose Construction has completed one multi-million pound project in Rotherham and has begun work on a second.

The Derbyshire company has transformed the former Kimberworth Comprehensive School in Rotherham into a new £2.9m children's services centre for Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council and NHS Rotherham.

Wildgoose has also started on site at a £3.4m My Place Centre in Rotherham town centre for Chantry YMCA and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council.

The children's services centre was completed in 40 weeks and comprised internal and external repair, refurbishment and alteration, including the demolition of a former caretaker's house and former science block, excavation to create a road and construction of a retaining wall.

The building will act as an office base for 15 teams and 170 staff who will deliver services to the children, young people and families of Rotherham.

Tim Walker, managing director of Wildgoose Construction, said it had been a pleasure working again with the borough council and its architects.

He said: "Their vision has transformed the disused Kimberworth School into a building which will go on to serve the community in its new role for many years to come.

Andrew Parry, project lead from Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, added: "The works that have taken place have transformed the building and site and myself and the clients involved are highly delighted with the project. The finished product has surpassed everyone's expectations where it has been a privilege to restore such a grand building to its former glory."

The My Place Centre will focus on social enterprise activity and recreational activities.

An alternative curriculum will be offered to young people who have been excluded from mainstream schools.

Connexions and Rotherham Children, Young People and Families Voluntary Sector Consortium will also provide support on a range of issues such as homelessness, sexual health and drug rehabilitation.

The centre will also offer a range of facilities for youngsters aged 11 to 19, including a graffiti room, IT suite, cinema, performance hall and rooftop café.

Tim Walker added: "We are also delighted to have been chosen to deliver the new My Place centre in Rotherham, which will give the young people of the area a vibrant and exciting focal point in which to channel their individualism and ideas and also provide additional employment to the local community in both full-time and part-time capacities."

"The construction of both projects has allowed us to give work opportunities to the community local to the sites as well as placing material orders with Rotherham based suppliers, which has given the local economy a much needed financial boost."

Wildgoose website

Images: Wildgoose Construction