WORK will begin on a multi-million-pound revamp of Cardigan secondary school after a contractor was appointed to move the project a step forward.

Ceredigion County Council awarded Wynne Construction the £4.8m contract for the design and build of extensions and remodelling works at Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi.

The firm has won the £4.8m contract to work on the school, which dates back to 1898.

In total there will be 11 new classrooms built as part of the development of the building, which dates back to 1898, alongside renovation work and the removal of five temporary classrooms.

The company expects to start on-site in July 2021 and take 18 months to complete.

Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi is a traditional bilingual mixed comprehensive with around 575 students across years 7 to 11, plus a sixth form of about 100.

Chris Wynne, managing director at Wynne Construction said: “We are thrilled to have been chosen by Ceredigion County Council to undertake the modernisation of Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi.

“It is real vote of confidence in our ability to work on such a prestigious project on a ‘live’ school site.

“This is a significant project for the local community and throughout the construction we will look to leaving a lasting legacy by creating job and training opportunities, working with our local supply chain partners and engaging with pupils as well as showcasing the wide range and variety of job roles available within the construction industry.”

Cllr Rhodri Evans, Cabinet member for economy and regeneration at Ceredigion County Council, said: “We are very pleased that the Cardigan Secondary School works contract has been awarded to Wynne Construction.

“As part of the 21st Century Schools Band B programme, the works will include one large extension and a few smaller extensions around the school, including more classrooms, adapting the main reception, extending the canteen, improving the science provision and a new drama studio.”

As the award is for a design and build contract, Wynne Construction will be appointing architects and mechanical and electrical designers as well as structural and civil among other consultants and sub-contractors.

The firm said it will be holding meet the buyer events in “due course”, which will “provide opportunities for companies in the local supply chain”.

The budget for the project is spilt 35/65 between the county council and the Welsh Government through its ‘21st Century Schools’ programme.

It will include replacing windows, removing temporary classrooms, installing a new energy-efficient boiler and enhancing the existing courtyards.

Other improvements include internal remodelling, a first-floor extension for two science laboratories and another above the music room to create a drama studio.

The three-storey extension will include eight classrooms and three ICT suites.