Eric Wright Construction has been selected to develop a new secondary and sixth form free school in Burnley.

The multi-million pound contract was commissioned through the Education Funding Authority (EFA) Regional Contractors Framework on behalf of Chapel Street Community Schools Trust.

Designed by JM Architects, the new three-storey 'Super Block' will be built on the site of the demolished Habergham High School.

Totalling 60,655 sq ft, the facility will provide accommodation for 450 secondary and 200 sixth form students.

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The contract award follows the decision to refurbish and extend the existing premises due to the discovery of shallow worked coal seams below the site.

The 81-week project will include site remediation works and mine stabilisation grouting is already underway.

John Wilson, MD at Eric Wright Construction, said: "We have leveraged the experience and technical expertise within the Eric Wright Group to take a pragmatic approach to designing this scheme that addresses the EFA's requirements, the Trust's preferences and the challenges of the site.

"Once completed, the school will be an important addition to the education choices available to families in Burnley and we look forward to handing the building over in April 2017."

(LM/MH)