The grass will be greener...

2:00pm Monday 9th April 2007

A GRASS roof is just one of the innovative designs included in blueprints for the new £24m building at Culcheth High School.

Building Design Partnership has unveiled its vision for the project including state-of-the-art learning spaces for subjects such as science, IT, drama, PE, technology and art.

And the award-winning architect firm has even included a roof planted with sedum - designed to insulate the structure naturally, reverse the loss of vegetation caused by construction and reduce rainwater run-off by absorption to reduce the risk of flooding.

Martyn Froggett, head teacher at the school, said: "We are delighted following our successful inspection report and record-breaking exam results that we will be able to provide our students with a first class, modern educational facility."

Other environmentally friendly measures include a system to collect rainwater and recycle it on site.

The school's sixth form wing will have private study areas and a common room, with facilities that can be used by both the school and Culcheth residents.

A key feature is a high-tech humanities conference centre, as well as a sports hall, dance studio, fitness suite, outdoor synthetic and grass pitches and meeting rooms.

Clr Sheila Woodyatt, the borough council's executive board member for education, said: "The plans for Culcheth High School are of a very high standard, which is no less than pupils, staff and the wider community deserve.

"The project again reflects our constant investment and commitment to children and their education in Warrington."

Work at the Withington Avenue site is predicted to start on the new build in January 2008.

The existing school will be demolished and it is hoped the new build will be completed for the start of the academic year in September 2009.