Willmott Dixon Awarded £61 Million Contract for New School in Wallasey

Willmott Dixon has been awarded a £61 million contract by the Department for Education (DfE) to construct a new secondary school for The Mosslands School in Wallasey. This significant project, designed by Ellis Williams Architects, will transform a 19-acre site into a state-of-the-art educational facility capable of accommodating 1,500 pupils.

The redevelopment will feature a modern three-storey building that aims to enhance educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Once the new school is completed, the existing buildings will be demolished.

In addition to the main school structure, the project will improve external facilities, including two sports halls, a replacement all-weather sports pitch, and a multi-use games area. A new car park and cycle parking will also be included, promoting an active lifestyle for students and the local community.

In line with the DfE’s sustainability goals, the new campus will be designed to achieve Net Zero Carbon in Operation (NZCIO). Low-carbon technologies such as photovoltaic panels, air source heat pumps, and ground source heat pumps will be integrated into the design, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.

The project is set to be completed in 2028 and represents a substantial investment in the education of both current and future students at The Mosslands School, as well as the wider Wallasey community.

Mike Poole-Sutherland, North West Director at Willmott Dixon, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the DfE and The Mosslands School on this landmark new school. Creating a contemporary, sustainable school that will provide inspiring learning environments for up to 1,500 pupils is something we are extremely proud to be delivering. This new campus will benefit students, staff and the wider community for years to come and we’re pleased to be playing our part in making this happen.”

Mr Whiteley, headteacher at The Mosslands School, commented: “This is a building that the students and community of Wallasey deserve. It will transform the learning environment and open up a world of possibilities for our students. It also builds on the proud history we have in providing technological excellence and we are delighted that the DfE recognises the importance of this in a modern education setting. Equally, we are committed to ensuring that the building provides opportunity for community engagement and education and are grateful that we have been granted a building that enables us to do so.”

Dominic Williams, Project Director at Ellis Williams Architects, added: “We are delighted that our design for Mosslands will be realised for both the School and the community. We hope the wide range of exciting spaces including a dramatic central atrium, flexible theatre, sports halls and a design technology zone will provide an aspiration to all the users.”

Willmott Dixon, alongside its local supply chain partners, aims to create a meaningful impact in Wallasey by supporting 20 T-Level students, delivering over 200 apprenticeship weeks, and engaging with local community projects. The project was secured through the DfE Construction Framework High Value Band Lot 1 & 2, highlighting Willmott Dixon’s strong track record in educational delivery, with £700 million secured to date on the current DfE framework.