Evolution5 was appointed to provide pre-construction phase project management and construction phase contract administration services on this complex and challenging conversion project.

A derelict building, which was constructed in the late 19th Century with a 1940’s extension located at Wickham Lane in Plumstead, was chosen to relocate Willow Dene Primary School while their present school was to be rebuilt.

This project provided many challenges; its lack of suitability to be converted into a special education needs facility, split levels between the original building and the subsequent extension, poor access and egress throughout, end of life mechanical and electrical services, inadequate incoming power supplies and so forth. In addition to accommodating pupils between 11-16 with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and mental health issues, the building was also to provide space for the local authority’s Professional Development Centre (PDC).

Using our knowledge and skills of working on education projects, in particular SEND, and working with an experienced and professional team, the building was successfully handed over within budget and provided a suitable and quality end product for Willowdene School and the LA’s PDC.