The existing Mayflower Primary School building has been empty since April 2023 because RAAC was found in the roof, making the building unsafe. As a result, pupils and staff were evacuated at short notice and housed in temporary, carefully managed accommodation on the nearby Ethel Road Playing Fields.

The temporary accommodation cannot provide enough space or facilities for PE and other curriculum activities in the longer term.

The proposed new school will provide a high-quality teaching environment and a large improvement over the existing temporary accommodation.

Play areas will be positioned to the east and south, creating a safer environment for pupils by positioning play space away from Evington Drive. Existing trees around the site will be retained where possible and enhanced through a landscaping scheme providing an attractive, high-quality environment.

The design reflects the local character of the area and respects the nearby Methodist Church, a Non-Designated Heritage Asset. Brick is the main material, with the final colour chosen to complement the Church.

Separate vehicular and pedestrian access into the site will be from points on Evington Drive. There are also no uplift in pupil or staff numbers proposed as part of the proposals.

Externally, the school’s existing multi-use games area and outdoor play areas will be replaced. The multi-use games area will be relocated to the north east, with play areas provided to the east and south.

During construction the temporary accommodation will remain in use. Once the new school is complete staff and students will transfer to the new school. It is expected that construction of the school will commence Spring 2027 and complete Winter 2028.