Building works commence

by Alan Brooks  on March 11, 2013  in  Academy Constuction Academy News

The Kensington Aldridge Academy and Kensington Leisure Centre scheme reached an important mile-stone on Monday 11 March when a sod cutting ceremony took place on site to officially mark the start of works.

Representatives from the Royal Borough, the Academy’s lead sponsor, the Aldridge Foundation and partners supporting the development of the Academy toured the site to see at first hand how the works are progressing. Contractor Leadbitter, part of the Bouygues Construction Group, began enabling works on site at the beginning of the year and construction is now underway with the Kensington Aldridge Academy opening in September 2014 for the first term of Year 7 pupils.

Construction of the leisure centre will run in parallel with the Academy so that both new buildings can open in 2014.

Councillor Sir Merrick Cockell, Leader of the Royal Borough, said:

“I am delighted that after years of planning and consultation that the works are now underway and in less than two years a brand new academy and leisure centre will be open for business.

“We have very high aspirations for both buildings and believe they are both going to make a positive difference to the lives of North Kensington residents.”

Sir Rod Aldridge, chairman of the Aldridge Foundation, said: “This is another big step towards opening an exciting new Academy which will deliver high standards of education for local children and bring real benefits for the local community. With our first Principal being appointed shortly too, parents can have confidence in applying for their son or daughter to join the Academy next year.”

Cliff Thomas, Regional Director of Leadbitter, said: “Leadbitter is delighted to start work on this exciting project to build The Kensington Aldridge Academy for the children in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.  Together with the Council and the sponsors we are planning to work closely with schools and other local groups to ensure the project brings benefits to the wider community, including job opportunities and training for the future.”