Children, families and the wider Alston community are set to benefit from major investment in local education, as the Department for Education (DfE) are now in a position to formally confirm, working in partnership with Westmorland and Furness Council and the Alston Moor Federation, the rebuilding of Samuel Kings School and Alston Primary School as part of the national school rebuilding programme, following extensive feasibility and scoping work over recent months. This will involve redevelopment of the Church Road site in Alston to provide primary and secondary provision.
The Church Road campus currently accommodates both Alston Primary School and Samuel King's School and is a central hub for education and family services in the area.
While plans are still at an early stage and further development work is required before proposals are finalised, the Federation and the Council have received permission from the DfE to inform parents and the wider community that it is actively working on a rebuilding project that could transform educational facilities in Alston for generations to come.
The announcement follows the completion of the acquisition of the vacant former garage site adjacent to the school. The site has been secured by Westmorland and Furness Council, which was essential as part of the future redevelopment of the school campus.
Rob Dawson, Headteacher of Alston Moor Federation, said:
"This is a hugely exciting opportunity for the children and families of Alston Moor. We are delighted to be working closely with the Department for Education as part of the Schools Rebuilding Programme to explore the future development of our Church Road site.
"Although there is still considerable work to undertake before plans are finalised, this project represents a significant investment in education within our community and the potential to create modern, high-quality learning environments for current and future generations.
"We know people will be keen to learn more, and we are committed to keeping our community informed as the project progresses. We look forward to sharing further information, including plans and opportunities for consultation, at the appropriate time."
The Schools Rebuilding Programme is a national initiative focused on replacing or refurbishing school buildings in the poorest condition, helping ensure pupils have access to safe, modern and sustainable facilities. There are currently more than 500 projects in the programme across England.
Cllr Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Council's Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Skills, said:
"This is excellent news for Alston Moor and a positive step towards securing the long-term future of education in this rural community.
"The Council has been pleased to support the project, including helping to secure the acquisition of the adjacent vacant garage site, which will support future redevelopment opportunities and assist the Department for Education and the Federation in bringing forward their ambitions for the campus.
"We are committed to working alongside Alston Moor Federation, the Department for Education and local residents to help deliver the best possible outcome for children, young people and families across Alston Moor."
Further details about the redevelopment will be shared as plans progress and opportunities for community engagement and consultation become available.