An ageing secondary school in Oldbury is set for a dramatic transformation, with plans unveiled to demolish the majority of its current buildings and construct a modern new teaching block and sports facilities.
Out with the old: Six buildings deemed 'unfit for purpose'
Plans submitted by the Department for Education propose extensive redevelopment work at Perryfields Academy on Oldacre Road. The application states that six existing structures, including the school's sports hall, are now considered 'unfit for purpose' and have reached the end of their serviceable life.
The buildings slated for demolition include:
- An unused two-storey block.
- A modular building.
- The school's gym, dance studio, and changing rooms.
- The existing dining hall and kitchen.
Only one current two-storey teaching block will remain. The new, three-storey L-shaped building will be constructed on the school's existing playing fields, with work hoped to be completed by early 2028.
Creating a safer, more connected campus
The application highlights significant safeguarding concerns with the current layout. The cluster of buildings from different eras creates areas where pupils can be unsupervised and limits connectivity across the site.
The new design aims to resolve these issues by providing safe, clear routes and a more open landscape that improves surveillance. It will also reduce changeover times between lessons, creating a more efficient environment for the school's 1,200 pupils.
New sports facilities and improved access
Following the main teaching block's construction, a second phase will see new sports and playing fields created on the site of the old buildings and car park. These will feature:
- Grass football pitches.
- A running track.
- Five-a-side pitches.
- Basketball and netball courts.
A new car park will replace the former sports hall and outdoor courts. Furthermore, to ease congestion, the entrance on Oldacre Road will be widened to allow for two-way vehicle access, with dedicated pedestrian access also improved. The access gates will be moved further into the site.
The Department for Education stated the development will deliver a 'high-quality and efficient educational facility' set within well-designed landscaping, achieving a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain. The entire project is scheduled for completion by 2029.
