Heron Hall Academy included the refurbishment and remodelling of an unoccupied, partly derelict 1930’s Grade II listed technical college building for new use as a secondary school. Through careful and considered analysis of the existing buildings, ArchitecturePLB developed a design proposal that made the previously unaffordable project viable. Our solution retained and restored the majority of the original listed building, with a new three-storey teaching wing replacing poor quality buildings which were no longer suited for school use. This proposal, while inherently more costly, released more land for residential development and was thus self-funding, allowing new, purpose-built accommodation for dining and specialist teaching. The conversion has rescued a high quality listed building from dereliction and decay, providing a valuable new community facility which has a viable long term future.

Shortlisted for a RICS Award (London) in the building conservation category.