Henry Boot hands over £14m Minsthorpe College project

The construction arm of the company has completed the new sports facilities and refurbished teaching spaces, having begun the scheme in summer 2023.

Located in South Elmsall, Wakefield, the net-zero-carbon-in-operation sports facility includes two studios, changing rooms, toilets, storage, office space, and a 6,400 sq ft sports hall, which opened in January.

Funded by the Department for Education, the scheme replaces the college’s outdated sports areas and has updated several existing teaching blocks.

An EPC A+ rating has been achieved, and a green roof and integrated sustainable drainage solutions have been installed to boost the building’s sustainability assets.

Ryan O’Loughlin, regional director at Henry Boot Construction, said: “From day one, this project was about more than just bricks and mortar, it was about creating a sustainable space that supports physical and mental wellbeing, learning and community engagement.

“Throughout the project, we also placed a strong focus on delivering social value – adopting a student-led approach to shaping the future of their sports facilities.

“We believe that quality social value is achieved through genuine collaboration, and we’re confident this development leaves a positive legacy that the whole community can be proud of.”

Joint principals Mark Gilmore and Rachael Merritt, from Minsthorpe Community College, added: “We were delighted to be chosen as one of the first 50 schools to be part of the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme.

“The new sports centre and surrounding works, including a new multi-use games area, is the final piece in the jigsaw in bringing the college’s facilities into the 21st century – meaning the experiences of both our amazing students and fantastic community will be enriched for years to come.”