Cuerden Primary School

Following this, the School Governors prepared an extensive design brief which set out their expectations and project objectives. This, in conjunction with a brief from Bamber Bridge Methodist Church, formed the basis of a Design Competition which Cassidy + Ashton were the successful consultants.

The brief called for a ‘high quality building, aesthetically pleasing in design and appearance, which will be seen as a centrepiece of the Bamber Bridge community’

The Church asked for a modern development with a flexible worship centre and a suite of rooms for community and meeting use. In addition to this, their brief required a vestry; kitchen; toilets and a Children’s Room. Both the Church and the School required an integrated approach; creating one building scheme that maximises each common use.

In terms of massing, the building has been visually broken down to reflect each constituent part. The classrooms, administration areas and halls each have their own identity, and this is reflected in the roof design. The roof also creates a defensible enclosure, recognising and reducing the anti-social behaviour which this site currently attracts.

Cassidy + Ashton achieved high praise off the DfES for the scheme, who commented that, “In architectural terms, the massing, proportions and materials choice all contribute towards a school design which is both stimulating and visually very competently handled”.

Our team

Project architect: Michael Hartley (now retired)

Project planner: Alban Cassidy