Posted on: 21 February 2019

A major development to provide a new teaching block at Sidmouth College has been approved by planners

East Devon District Council has granted planning permission for the new teaching block and the subsequent demolition of the outdated 1960s buildings it is replacing.

The project is being funded by the Government's Priority Schools Building Programme and the Department for Education will be appointing a contractor to deliver the scheme. The final timescale and cost of the development are currently being agreed.

It will provide airy, energy efficient classrooms and office space. There will be a new suite of fully equipped science laboratories, modern catering and dining facilities, an activity/dance studio and a new hall with retractable seating.

College Principal Sarah Parsons said: "'The new facilities will make such a difference to all of the students at Sidmouth College, who cannot fail to be inspired by this immense improvement in their surroundings.

"We will also be able to offer our community and current hirers a selection of much improved spaces for their activities outside of school hours."

Plans for the new building have been approved in consultation with Sidmouth Town Council, Sport England, Leisure East Devon and neighbours of the college.

The completed scheme will see improvements in parking for users of the leisure centre.

Mrs Parsons said: "We are keenly aware that a project of this scale cannot be delivered without some impact on those living and working in the vicinity.

"I would like to assure our neighbours that the minimisation of this disruption is very high on everyone's agenda. I am extremely grateful for the support that the community has shown and continues to show to the college."