Wrexham school to undergo major transformation to bring pupils under one roof

A Wrexham school is set to undergo a major transformation under plans to bring all its pupils under one roof.

Children at Ysgol Yr Hafod in Johnstown are currently taught at two separate sites in the village, depending on which age group they fall into.

An application has been put forward which would result in three new classrooms being created to house infant school pupils at the Bangor Road site, where junior students are based.

It would also result in the refurbishment of the existing building to accommodate a total of 350 pupils overall.

Other proposals include the introduction of a new staff car park and multi-use games area.

While the work is being carried out, two temporary teaching blocks would be brought onto the site, each containing four classrooms.

In a planning statement, architects acting on behalf of Wrexham Council and building firm Wynne Construction said: “This planning application seeks consent for a single storey, three classroom extension, connecting to the south facade of the existing Ysgol Yr Hafod school building.

“In addition to 21st century classrooms, it will provide a new main entrance and administration hub, a new early years foundation phase class base, and supporting ancillary facilities.

“It also seeks consent for the refurbishment of the existing school building in order to provide better quality education environments in line with 21st century standards.

“In addition, consent is also sought for the change of use to the neighbouring residential school house property off Bangor Road, from a private residential dwelling to a non-residential institution.

“A single-storey extension is proposed to the south eastern side of the property to create a new class base which is to provide wrap-around care for part time students and the after school club outside of typical school hours.

“Finally, consent is sought for a new staff car park, a multi-use games area and all other associated external works to accommodate the proposed scheme.”

Funding for the improvements will be provided by the Welsh Government with the local authority also contributing to the costs.

A decision will be made on the application by council planners at a later date.

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter