Birmingham's Fortis Academy Faces Demolition Under School Rebuilding Programme
The Department for Education has lodged a significant application with Birmingham City Council that proposes the near-complete demolition of Fortis Academy on Aldridge Road in Great Barr. This secondary school, which currently serves approximately 1,300 students, is targeted for redevelopment due to its deteriorating physical state.
Condition of Existing Buildings Deemed Unsuitable
Official reports from the Department for Education describe the existing structures as being in "poor condition" and "life-expired." The documents argue emphatically that these buildings are "no longer fit for modern teaching requirements," necessitating a comprehensive replacement to meet contemporary educational standards.
Detailed Redevelopment Plans Unveiled
The proposed scheme envisions the demolition of the current main school building and an adjacent leisure centre. In their place, the plans call for the construction of:
- A new teaching block designed for modern pedagogical needs
- A dedicated dining facility to serve the student body
- A contemporary sports block to enhance physical education offerings
- New sports pitches and a Multi-Use Game Area (MUGA) for outdoor activities
The project also includes associated works such as comprehensive landscaping improvements and revised car parking arrangements. Notably, the existing sixth form building on the site will be preserved and not face demolition under the current proposals.
Part of National School Rebuilding Programme
This redevelopment forms a crucial component of the national School Rebuilding Programme (SRP), which prioritizes major rebuilding and refurbishment projects at schools and sixth form colleges across England based on the condition of their facilities. The Department for Education selected Fortis Academy for this central government funding specifically because of the "physical condition of the school" and its inability to support modern educational practices.
Bowmer and Kirkland have been appointed as the main contractor for this significant educational infrastructure project, bringing their expertise to the Great Barr community.
No Increase in Student or Staff Numbers
The application documents clarify that the proposals "simply seek to replace the existing facilities on site on a like-for-like basis." Consequently, there are no planned uplifts in pupil or staff numbers. The primary objective is to provide modern, well-designed, and energy-efficient buildings that will substantially enhance the learning environment for both students and educators.
The Department for Education emphasizes that these new accommodations are essential to replace facilities identified as being in poor condition. The redevelopment aims to "significantly enhance the learning environment" while improving the school's relationship with the wider community through improved facilities and design.
