Astrea Academy

DLP Planning Limited secured full planning permission and listed building consent on behalf of Sheffield City Council for a new “through school” for pupils aged 3-18 at Andover Street, Sheffield following a positive recommendation to grant planning permission made by Officers to the Planning Committee.

The development included refurbishment of the Grade II Listed Pye Bank School which had been left vacant for some time but was proposed to form the nursery and reception years school. It also involved the closure of a variety of streets and the reconfiguration of public rights of way around the site. Retaining the character of the listed building was an essential element of the proposals as was consideration of the long-distance views of the new modern building which will be seen from the city centre.

The design, prepared by Race Cottam Associates, delivered on these objectives and created a functional and flexible teaching and learning environment that is able to be adapted to the changing needs of education.

The development was part of a response to demand for more school places in the city and has delivered the full range of facilities expected of modern teaching facilities and outdoor play areas including multi-use game areas (MUGA). These facilities can benefit the wider population as they are subject to a Community Use Agreement which means other groups can make use of such amenities in future. This is intended to foster lifelong learning and form a vibrant, popular hub for the community.