Delivering a new school in the heart of Manchester
Client: Co-op Academy New Islington
Conlon Construction delivered Co-op Academy New Islington, a purpose-built two-form entry primary school for 420 pupils as part of the Government’s Free Schools Programme.
Constructed using an innovative off-site modular approach, the project created a modern learning environment while overcoming the challenges of a highly constrained city-centre site, minimising disruption to neighbouring residents and businesses throughout delivery.
The Challenge
Located within a dense urban environment with restricted access, the site presented significant logistical challenges. Traditional construction methods would have increased vehicle movements, programme duration and disruption to the surrounding community.
The project required a solution that would accelerate delivery, reduce site activity and create a high-quality educational environment capable of serving a growing local population.
Our Solution
Conlon adopted a volumetric off-site construction approach, manufacturing key building elements away from site before transporting them for installation.
The development included:
- 14 modern classrooms
- Sports hall and physical activity facilities
- Dedicated immersive learning space
- IT suite and digital learning facilities
- Staff accommodation and welfare areas
- Commercial kitchen and catering facilities
- Plant rooms and ancillary support spaces
- Staff parking provision
- Hard and soft play areas
- Habitat and biodiversity zones
- Sustainable drainage infrastructure, including an attenuation pond
- Extensive external works and landscaping
Throughout the programme, proactive engagement with local residents and businesses ensured concerns were addressed quickly and communication remained open and transparent.
The Outcome
The completed school provides a high-quality learning environment designed to support pupils throughout their primary education, while delivering significant programme and sustainability benefits through modern methods of construction.
By using off-site manufacturing, Conlon reduced site traffic, shortened construction timescales and minimised disruption within a busy city-centre location.
The project demonstrates how innovative construction techniques can successfully deliver complex educational facilities in constrained urban environments, creating lasting value for pupils, staff and the wider community.
Through the adoption of modular construction the project was successfully completed in time for the commencement of the Academic Year . This was a credit to Conlon and all involved praised the delivery of the building.