Hobson & Porter, Innovation based on tradition

Exciting plans have been unveiled for a new £1.85m art and design technology building at a Beverley school. East Riding Council has drawn up plans for a new arts building at Beverley High School in Norwood. The development will be constructed by Hobson & Porter Ltd and will replace two outdated prefabricated buildings on the site.

The council says the existing prefabricated huts are unattractive, unsuitable, expensive to run and remote from the main part of the school. A suite of studios, workshops and exhibition spaces are now planned for the new building. The development will improve facilities for students, increase vocational opportunities and could also pave the way for some community use out of school hours.

The plans will go before East Riding councillors for approval in May. If the scheme gets the go-ahead, building work will get underway in July. The new two-storey building could be in use at the girls school by Easter 2008.

Head teacher Ruth Vincent said: "There is a real buzz and excitement about the proposed new development. We know from having a newly-built sports hall what a fantastic difference it makes having a new working and learning environment." The teaching area for art and design technology will be increased by almost 60 per cent. Mrs Vincent said: "We will have more space and there will be new equipment for pupils to use. We will also be able to replace outdated tables and chairs."