Proposal

A series of wider masterplan improvements at Sutton High School, including a new sixth form building, an extension to the existing refectory building, an infill extension to the junior school, a new two-storey prep school extension, new sports changing rooms and the creation of a multi-use games area.

Summary

The proposals at Sutton High School formed part of a wider programme of strategic improvements to the school campus.

The works were designed to enhance the school’s educational and sports facilities, address existing spatial constraints, improve sustainability credentials and support pupil wellbeing. The scheme also supported an increase in school capacity, helping to respond to growing local demand for school places.

The improvements included a new sixth form building, extensions to existing school buildings, new sports changing facilities and the creation of a multi-use games area.

Our solutions

Nexus Planning has supported Sutton High School across a series of planning proposals forming part of the wider campus redevelopment.

Most recently, Nexus was involved in proposals for a new sixth form building, which formed the final phase of the wider redevelopment. The building was proposed on the site of three existing buildings, requiring early pre-application engagement with Sutton Council.

As the scheme involved demolition, Nexus helped prepare a robust evidence base to demonstrate that the existing buildings were no longer fit for purpose. This supported the case for a high-quality, sustainable and future-focused sixth form facility.

Given the site’s close proximity to neighbouring residential properties, public consultation was undertaken before submission. The proposals also included a new access point onto the Transport for London road network, requiring ongoing pre-application discussions with TfL.

Temporary accommodation was proposed on the existing tennis courts, which required careful consultation and pre-application engagement with Sport England.

Due to the construction programme, Nexus advised that the proposals should be split into separate planning applications. This helped streamline lower-risk elements of the project and support a more efficient route through the planning process.

OUTCOME AND IMPACT

The scheme supported Sutton High School’s long-term campus improvement strategy, helping to deliver better teaching, sixth form, dining, prep school and sports facilities.

The proposals were designed to address existing constraints on the school site, improve the quality and sustainability of the learning environment, and support pupil wellbeing.

The new and improved facilities also helped the school respond to increased local demand for places, while carefully managing planning considerations relating to neighbouring residents, highways, sports provision and construction phasing.