SUTTON THEATRE, ASHFIELD DISTRICT COUNCIL

PROJECT BACKGROUND

Based in the heart of Sutton-in-Ashfield, Sutton Community Academy is a coeducational hub for 1,300 secondary and sixth form students.

Supported by our existing client, Ashfield District Council, the academy wanted to modernise and renovate its existing theatre to create a new multifunctional community space for drama studies students.

The facility was also required to be available for use by the wider community for local theatre productions and community projects.

SERVICES PROVIDED

Miller Knight were selected via direct award as a trusted delivery partner to negotiate this scheme following successful completion of three previous projects for repeated client, Ashfield District Council. The Academy remained open throughout the duration of the project and careful planning and daily liaison were required to ensure the works were carried out safely, whilst ensuring ongoing learning was not disrupted.

Scope of works included:

  • Renovation and reconfiguration of the existing theatre to create new dressing rooms, changing rooms, toilets, and multi-use teaching spaces.
  • Asbestos removal, demolition, and full strip-out.
  • Full M&E strip-out and reconfiguration to suit new layout.
  • Co-ordination and installation of specialist theatre fit-out works, including fly systems, rigging, projector, lighting, and audio visual performance systems.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Miller Knight strive for success and the highest quality outcome for any contracted services.

  • SENSITIVE WORKING: Due to working in a live school environment, all operatives were DBS checked to ensure safeguarding protocols were met. Work practices were modified to eliminate impact on ongoing learning (noisy work undertaken out of hours/weekends).
  • SPECIALISED WORKS: Phased asbestos removal to ensure safety of staff, students, and the public whilst minimising disruption.

“We have been working with Miller Knight on consecutive projects over the last few years and they have continued to provide a professional and reliable service. The site team on each project have managed the developments proactively and effectively ensuring a successful completion to a high standard. The team have been integral to the delivery of each project to which we could highly recommend.”

Katie Mills, Principal Consultant, Kinver Business Solutions