Converting a flood risk, brownfield industrial site into a state-of-the-art multipurpose sustainable school.
From the outset, Design ID led the Civil and Structural Engineering design, focusing on coordination among all parties to assess and mitigate potential hazards. Early involvement with Statutory Bodies, including detailed consultations with the Environment Agency Flood team, Council LLFA, Thames Water, Council Highways, and adjacent developers, was fundamental to the project's success.
Design ID’s leadership in the Flood Risk input resulted in a detailed Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Strategy report for planning submission, crucial for the site's location within Flood Zone 2/3. We provided key input into the site massing strategy and developed a proposed levels model to address the site's flooding challenges. The project also faced constraints such as localised contamination and required coordination with an adjacent development submitting a planning application simultaneously. Design ID produced detailed Section 184/278 designs for the public highway to the north of the proposed school site, showcasing our technical expertise and meticulous planning.
A key highlight of the Pathways School project was the use of volumetric modular design, which allowed for rapid construction and significantly reduced time spent on site, thereby minimising disruption to the local community. This innovative approach demonstrated creativity and efficiency, ensuring the project met critical time constraints while delivering a high-quality educational facility. The modular solution provided inherent stability, utilising internal walls and moment-resisting connections to eliminate the need for additional steel bracing. This approach accommodated large spans in classrooms and an 11m long, 8m high multi-use activity hall, minimising section sizes through lightweight construction.
The completed Pathways School now serves as a fit-for-purpose, innovative learning environment that supports the diverse needs of its students. The school's new site includes a range of Primary, Secondary, and Sixth Form classrooms, therapy and sensory rooms, dining and vocational areas, a library, playground, astroturf football pitch, sports hall, and parking and cycle spaces. These varied spaces ensure that the curriculum can be delivered effectively, equipping pupils to live full, independent lives.
Integrated into Dagenham’s wider regeneration on the old Ford factory site, Pathways School not only provides an inclusive and supportive learning environment but also contributes positively to the local area, becoming a fantastic resource for the wider community. The school's design and construction exemplify sustainability, from the rapid, low disruption building process to the long-term environmental benefits of a purpose-built facility designed to meet the highest standards.
The new Pathways School stands as a testament to our ability to transform challenging brownfield sites into thriving, supportive educational environments, providing lasting benefits for students, staff, and the broader community.
Client: REDS10
Architect: HLM
