HLM Architects is delighted to share that work at the Fairwater Community Campus has resumed following the appointment of Borley Engineering Services Limited (BESL) as the emergency interim Principal Contractor by Cardiff Council. This positive step forward provides renewed energy and focus as we enter the new year.
Construction Resumes at Fairwater Community Campus
Borley Engineering Services Limited appointed interim Principal Contractor for Fairwater Campus
Borley Engineering Services Limited (BESL’s) appointment has allowed for site operations to recommence swiftly, providing stability and security for the project’s supply chain partners, subcontractors, and small businesses.
Fairwater Community Campus, Cardiff’s largest education development, involves the construction of three new-build schools – Cantonian High School, Riverbank School, and Woodlands High School – all situated on a single shared site in Fairwater. These schools will retain their unique identities while benefiting from the advantages of co-location, such as enhanced collaboration and shared facilities. Once complete, the campus will serve as a cornerstone of the region’s educational infrastructure and a testament to the Welsh Government’s vision for modern, inclusive learning environments.
Restoring Momentum
BESL and their project management partner, CMB Engineering, have extensive expertise in the education sector, having worked on similar developments across the UK. Their familiarity with Fairwater Community Campus, developed over the past year through close collaboration with Cardiff Council and supply chain partners, positions them to deliver success in this interim role.
A Cardiff Council spokesperson highlighted the significance of this appointment, stating:
“By selecting BESL as the interim emergency Principal Contractor, we will get workers back on site as soon as possible, ensure workers are paid for work done, minimise delays, keep costs down, protect jobs, and safeguard the supply chain while protecting the public investment that has already taken place in what is one of the UK’s largest education projects.”
A Collaborative Vision
The co-location of Cantonian High School, Woodlands Secondary School, and Riverbank Primary School on the Fairwater site represents an innovative approach to modern education. Each school will maintain its own dedicated facilities while sharing spaces designed to foster collaboration and community spirit. A separate Health and Wellbeing block will enhance support for students, staff, and the wider local community, aligning with the goals of the new Welsh curriculum to promote lifelong learning and wellbeing.
Gina Callaghan, Architects at HLM Architects, expressed her enthusiasm for the project’s renewal:
“We’re delighted to see Fairwater Community Campus back in full flow as we kick off the new year. This development embodies a shared vision for educational excellence and innovative design, and we’re thrilled to continue working with Cardiff Council and the wider project team to bring this transformative campus to life.”
Fairwater Community Campus: A Testament to Educational Commitment
The Fairwater Community Campus underscores Cardiff Council and the Welsh Government’s dedication to delivering world-class education infrastructure. Once operational, the campus will offer state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet the diverse needs of its student body, while also providing a community asset with amenities accessible outside school hours.
As construction resumes, the project symbolizes renewed hope, resilience, and a commitment to creating a bright future for education in Cardiff. Through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering resolve, Fairwater Community Campus is set to become a benchmark for modern education in Wales.
