SJ Roberts bags £10m Powys school build contract

Shropshire building company SJ Roberts Construction has been appointed to deliver a new purpose-built alternative provision school, in the mid-Wales village of Kerry, near Newtown.

The £10m project will get under way later this year, with an anticipated 18-month build schedule, in readiness for a planned launch of the new school in Autumn 2027.

The firm will partner with its sister company, Lowfield Timber Frames which will be responsible for the design and erection of the timber frame structure around which the new 17,500 sq ft school building will be constructed.

The firm, based on the England-Wales border in Marton, south Shropshire, has previously built out education-related projects for Telford & Wrekin Council, The 3-18 Education Trust, and PGL Travel.

Managing director at SJ Roberts, Mike Sambrook, said the chance to work on the “high-quality” education project was an exciting one for the business.

“When it’s a project based nearby to our own headquarters, it’s extra special as it allows us to combine our local knowledge, with our in-house specialist teams to ensure the highest standards of quality and coordination,” he said.

“We’re committed to utilising the local supply chain wherever possible but have also engaged with market leading consultants in architecture and sustainability to work alongside those experienced teams.”

Other key design details will include solar PV panels, air source heat pumps, and a mechanical ventilation heat recovery system. Collectively, these features will ensure that the new building achieves Net Zero Carbon once in operation.

Once complete, the new facility will replace the adjacent school building, which Powys County Council says is no longer fit for purpose.

Cllr James Gibson-Watt, cabinet member for Learning Powys, said: “Appointing SJ Roberts Construction is a key milestone for this important project, which will provide our vulnerable learners with a high-quality, modern school environment that meets their needs and supports their wellbeing.

“This investment will ensure pupils have access to facilities that meet modern standards and support their learning and well-being. It also reflects our commitment to transforming education and building a stronger, fairer, greener future for Powys.

“I look forward to seeing work start on site and to the many benefits this new building will bring to pupils, families, and staff.”