Galliford Try has been awarded a contract by the Department for Education (DfE) to redevelop Benton Park Primary School in North Tyneside.

The project will deliver a new, two-storey building designed to be Net Zero Carbon in Operation. Sustainability is at the heart of the development, which features a biosolar green roof, rooftop photovoltaic panels, energy-efficient systems, and low-carbon construction methods. The scheme also incorporates sustainable drainage measures (SuDS) and a site layout that encourages active travel and improves pupil safety.

Construction began in July 2025, with the new building scheduled for completion in August 2026 in time for the new academic year. Final demolition and landscaping work will continue until April 2027.

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Benton Park Primary serves 420 pupils aged 3–11, including 26 full-time nursery places and a specialist special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision, which guarantees 12 places for deaf students. The redevelopment will provide high-quality, inclusive learning facilities and enhance the existing forest school space for both pupils and the wider community.

The project also delivers a 22.8% biodiversity net gain, more than double the required amount. Measures include creating habitat piles, installing integrated bird and bat boxes, preserving existing trees, and introducing new woodland planting, all contributing to a more diverse and educational outdoor environment.

Construction has been carefully phased to allow the school to remain fully operational throughout, without the need for temporary accommodation. A dedicated new access route will improve drop-off safety and reduce traffic on surrounding roads.