Morgan Sindall Construction, a Manchester Invest at UKREiiF partner, has officially commenced construction on the permanent site of Star Radcliffe Academy, an ambitious new secondary school project that marks a major milestone in the regeneration of Radcliffe, Greater Manchester alongside Bury Council.
The 750 place, five form entry school is operated by Star Academies, one of the UK’s top-performing multi-academy trusts. Star Radcliffe Academy opened in temporary facilities in September 2024, and ahead of welcoming a new cohort of Year 7 pupils this autumn, those facilities are being extended to include new classrooms, science labs, a school kitchen, indoor activity spaces, and outdoor recreational areas.
The permanent three storey, 6,000m² building is being constructed as a ‘superblock’ layout with extensive external works. The campus will include new sports provision, a drop off zone, and a new access road, all aimed at supporting a modern and sustainable learning environment.
As part of its Intelligent Solutions approach, Morgan Sindall has addressed complex ground conditions related to the site’s coal mining past by deploying ground stabilisation and vibro piling methods. This not only ensures a secure foundation but significantly reduces the project’s carbon footprint through minimal concrete usage.
Importantly, the school is designed to operate at net zero in operation (NZIO). It incorporates energy-efficient systems, renewable energy technologies, and a pioneering stormwater management system made from 100% recycled, carbon-neutral materials sourced just 13 miles from the site. These innovations align closely with Greater Manchester’s ambitious sustainability and climate goals.
Steven Gregory, North West Area Director at Morgan Sindall Construction, said:
“We’re thrilled to deliver what will be an important new school for Radcliffe and the surrounding areas. As a community minded business, we’re helping to address the vital issue of school places while building a new school that is both highly sustainable and a high-quality learning environment for local students. As part of our delivery of this project, we look forward to undertaking social value initiatives that enhance the local community, ensuring the Star Radcliffe Academy will benefit the area long before completion.”
Councillor Lucy Smith, Deputy Leader of Bury Council and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said:
“We are pleased to celebrate the start of construction on the new Star Radcliffe Academy building. We have been a longtime fighting for a new school for Radcliffe and I am so proud to be here at this groundbreaking. This is a key part of the ongoing multi-million-pound regeneration of Radcliffe and will contribute significantly to the area. The academy has already proved a popular choice among local families and will provide much-needed high school places with excellent facilities, giving our young people the opportunity to thrive.”
Paul Johnson, Principal at Star Radcliffe Academy, said:
“We are delighted with the pace at which construction is progressing on our permanent home and it is incredibly exciting to see our vision for Star Radcliffe Academy becoming a reality. The new building will provide an exceptional learning environment for our pupils, equipped with modern classrooms, cutting-edge technology, and excellent sports and recreational facilities. These resources will not only enhance our pupils’ education but also provide a wealth of opportunities for personal development, enrichment and future success. We’re looking forward to moving into our state-of-the-art facilities by September 2026, and establishing the school as a beacon of the community for today’s young people and future generations.”
The construction of the permanent school building, at the site on Spring Lane, is now underway. A groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark the start of works with Morgan Sindall staff joined by representatives from the Department for Education, Bury Council and Star Academies.
Morgan Sindall recently completed work at Pear Tree Academy, a new SEND school in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, and is currently on site at Dixons Newall Green Academy in Wythenshawe and Newhouse Academy in Rochdale.