Somerset's first 'net zero' school granted planning permission
£11.3 million has been secured to build the primary school in Taunton which will house more than 400 pupils
Permission to build Somerset's first 'Net Zero' emissions school has been granted - setting the local authority back more than £11 million.
Last month, planning permission was granted for the new primary school at the Orchard Grove development in Taunton which will serve the new community with the capacity for 420 pupils and 52 nursery places.
Somerset County Council says there will be room to expand and accommodate an additional 210 children in the future.
An investment of £11.3 million has been secured by Somerset County Council to build the new school, which they say will address the shortfall in school places in the local area.
The 'super energy efficient' Passivhaus design alongside the addition of solar panels will ensure the building is Net Zero - a benefit to both the environment, and also the long-term running costs, which can flow towards education instead of keeping the building running.
The new school will have three sports pitches, a range of play equipment, and parking provision for electric vehicles.
It's being built in accordance with the local authority's Climate Emergency Strategy.
The school building will open in September 2024, but from September 2023, pupils will attend Isambard Kingdom Brunel school in Wellington, and home to school transport will be provided.
Orchard Grove children will wear their new school uniforms, have the same classes, subjects and teachers.
The Castle Partnership Trust has been approved by the Secretary of State for Education as the Academy sponsor who will run the school.
Applications for a place in reception this September have already been received.
Councillor Tessa Munt, Executive Lead for Children and Families at Somerset County Council said “I’m thrilled that this Passivhaus school has been approved, and children in the area will have the opportunity to learn in a ‘green’ environment. It’s important to keep energy costs down so schools can focus their resources on education. We’re committed to sustainability, and to improving education and opportunities for children and young people. This is a historic school build we can all take great pride in!”
Councillor Sarah Dyke, Executive Lead Member for Environment and Climate Change said “If we are to tackle the challenges that climate change will bring, one of the key tasks for the new Somerset Council will be to hardwire energy efficiency into the development of the county. This be will true of both public and private sectors. The new Orchard School building is a fantastic instance of how the new Council can lead by example.”