Monkton Wood Academy – Refurbishment

Harris Bros. & Collard (HBC) were appointed by Somerset Council on a full Design and Build basis to deliver the refurbishment and extension of the existing Library building (Block K) at Monkton Wood Academy in Taunton, Somerset. The project formed part of the school’s investment in improving its catering and dining facilities for students.

The scheme involved the conversion of the existing school library into a new Dining Hall and commercial Kitchen, together with the concurrent refurbishment of the first floor to create a new Library space. A new single storey extension was also constructed to the existing building to provide the additional floor area required for the new kitchen and dining facility.

HBC were appointed as both Design and Build Contractor and Principal Contractor under CDM 2015, holding full responsibility for the design development, construction delivery, health and safety management, and programme throughout. Grainge Architects acted as Architect and Principal Designer, with Futures for Somerset managing the project on behalf of Somerset Council as client.

Works included:

• Full Design and Build appointment, demonstrating HBC’s capability to manage the complete design and construction process from pre-construction through to handover.
• Principal Contractor appointment under CDM 2015 on a live school campus, with rigorous safeguarding and site management requirements. 
• Successful delivery of a new commercial kitchen and dining facility, refurbished library, and new single storey extension within a single contract. 
• Delivered for Somerset Council, demonstrating HBC’s established public sector and education sector credentials. 
• Works completed on a fully operational school site, requiring careful planning, phasing, and communication with the school at all stages.