GB Building Solutions has won a £6.1m design and build contract for a new arts centre building at Outwood Grange Academy in Wakefield.

The scheme involves the construction of a leading edge creative arts facility, with additional teaching space and a new multi use games area. The 3000m2 building will house the drama, dance, music and art departments and feature a multi-purpose performance space, art studios, galleries and state-of-the-art music recording studios. The contract includes the demolition of an existing building, which will take place when the new building is complete.


This is GB's second design and build education project in Wakefield, the first was the £4.4m Wakefield College which completed September 2012, and GB is currently working on the University of Huddersfield's £22.5m Learning and Leisure Centre and the £3.7m Central Services building envelope scheme.

Executive Principal Julie Slater said: "We are delighted that the construction of the Arts Centre will be starting shortly. The new centre will not only be used for teaching and performing but also allow collaborative working with visiting arts practitioners and community use.’"

Students and representatives from Outwood Grange Academy and GB Building Solutions marked the start of construction with a traditional ground breaking ceremony. The new facilities will open to students in August 2014.

(CD)