School's 'net zero' rebuild given green light

A secondary school in Sandiacre is to be "almost completely demolished" to make way for a "net zero" eco-friendly rebuild.

Plans for the new 1,280-pupil facility at the Friesland School site on Nursery Avenue were approved by Erewash Borough Council on 11 June.

The "multi-million-pound" project will see all but three of the buildings - the existing science and technology, sixth form and performing arts blocks - be demolished, along with the former Friesland Leisure Centre on the same site.

When built, the new school will feature grassy rooftops with solar panels, the meeting was told.

The three-storey school - identified as a prime candidate for redevelopment by the Department for Education - will feature 31 classrooms and teaching areas, along with a drama studio, library, dining hall, sports hall and fitness suite.

Amphitheatre-style seating, a fenced "recovery garden" quiet space and separate garden for pupils with special educational needs will be added to the existing outdoor facilities.

Electric vehicle charging points will also be installed in the car park.

Councillor Mark Alfrey, the borough council's lead member for environment, said the new school would be "a tremendous boost for the students of Sandiacre".

He added: "This exciting project underscores a commitment to fostering an inspiring, sustainable and inclusive learning environment for current and future generations."

Five objection letters were submitted by opposing residents, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said, with concerns over construction traffic disruption, removal of trees creating privacy issues, and drainage issues.

Closing the sports centre has saved the council £120,000 a year, with the authority saying the facility struggled to remain viable due to its limited access to the public.

The council had also said that the Two Counties Trust academy chain, based in Kirkby in Ashfield, "viewed "the presence of sports centre visitors, contractors and others as a safety and safeguarding risk".

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