Schools in running for design award

SHORTLISTED . . . Radclyffe School

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TWO new Oldham schools have scooped more accolades as they join a record shortlist for this year’s Prime Minister’s Better Public Building Award.

Radclyffe and Failsworth schools are among 24 entries competing for the award, sponsored jointly by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, the Office of Government Commerce and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

The award is unique in requiring both efficient procurement and excellent design.

The 24 projects, chosen from 125 entries from around the country, also represent the longest ever shortlist.

They represent how everyday architecture — in streets, schools, bridges and stations — ranks among the most imaginative and beautiful designs being built today.

The flagship Oldham schools have already been jointly nominated for a top design award at the annual event to celebrate the best public and private partnerships, and Radclyffe is already in the running to be named the country’s best educational building.

Both schools had to contend with split sites before moving into their state-of-the-art buildings which feature spectacular central atriums.

Built by Kier after Oldham Council signed a £97 million Private Finance Initiative deal, Radclyffe was inspired by the Trafford Centre, while Failsworth pupils wanted their school to look like a business centre.

The Prime Minister said: “We are absolutely committed to good quality, sustainable public buildings and infrastructure, as we believe that buildings that work efficiently and effectively improve the lives of those working in and around them and mean better public services.

“These projects show how creative design can make a real difference to how buildings and places work and can deliver public buildings that the community can take pride in.”