Gleeds has been appointed to head up a technical advisory team on the second wave of the Welsh Government's 21st Century Schools build programme.

The consultancy will lead a consortium comprising specialist engineers Cundall and design practice Scott Brownrigg as technical advisors for Mutual Investment Model (MIM) projects on the initiative.

Known as 'Band B', the programme covers all state schools and colleges across Wales and will see the provision of new buildings and institutions in need of refurbishment modernised from April 2019.

Gleeds' team will provide technical advisory services in two phases for MIM projects, with phase one predominantly focused on supporting the Government as it defines and develops the programme's remit. Phase two comprises the roll-out and delivery of schemes across the country, including the production of standard documentation such as specifications, bid documents, and business case support materials for tranches of projects.


Simon Price, Director at Gleeds heading up the project, said: "The 21st Century Schools and Education plan is part of a long-term, strategic objective to create better learning environments for students, as well as generating more local apprenticeships countrywide.

"Essentially it seeks to provide a more skilled workforce that will in turn support regional economies and I am delighted to be leading this talented team as we get the second wave of projects underway."

Jon James, Director at Scott Brownrigg, said: "Scott Brownrigg is delighted to be part of the Gleeds team, supporting the Welsh Assembly on these vital Education projects for Wales.  This is a unique opportunity in ensuring the enhancement and continual improvement of the Education estate in Wales."

Adrian Roche, Partner at Cundall, added: "Cundall is delighted to be a part of this exciting schools delivery programme. The quality of our schools has a huge impact on the outcomes of the pupils. We very much welcome this opportunity for the team to help create sustainable and stimulating places in which to learn and develop."

(LM)