City school set for 'first class' redevelopment

A city secondary school is to undergo a major rebuilding programme after a council officially approved plans.

The Hewett Academy, on Cecil Road in Norwich, Norfolk, applied to Norwich City Council for permission to build a new sports hall, refurbish its swimming facilities - and demolish derelict buildings.

It was among six schools chosen by the government in 2022 for full redevelopment.

Principal Antony Little said: "The new build for Hewett Academy will be one that matches the ambitions and aspirations of our students."

Norwich City Council granted planning permission for the work at a meeting on Monday.

Mr Little said: "The iconic clocktower remains and there is a refurbishment of the Walter Roy Theatre, which will stand alongside the new buildings as a coming-together of the school's rich history and its brilliant future."

The school dates back to the 1950s when it originally consisted of three separate sites, which were later merged into one in 1970.

It was designed by the award-winning architect David Percival, who was responsible for a number of other landmark buildings in the city, including the now-demolished St Augustine’s swimming pool and the central library, which burned down in 1994.

The school is operated by the Inspiration Trust who said the proposal to redevelop the schools buildings would honour the history and culture of the school and provide more community and green spaces.

Gareth Stevens chief executive, said the improvements were "eight years in the making".

"We're delighted that by listening to and incorporating the views of the community, our project to provide a first-class building for Hewett has received such strong local support.

"Improving our teaching and sporting facilities, so they match the exceptional education our pupils receive, not only benefits existing students but will also mean we can offer the Hewett experience to even more facilities."

Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.