Client

Kier Construction (on behalf of the Department for Education)

Local Authority

Darlington Borough Council

Project Description

???

DPP was appointed by Kier Construction (on behalf of the Department for Education) to prepare, submit, and manage a full planning application (including listed building consent) for the redevelopment of Polam Hall School. The proposals included the partial demolition and partial retention and refurbishment of existing buildings, the erection of a single storey extension to Elm Grove and a two storey extension to the main building, the erection of temporary modular accommodation for the duration of the demolition and construction period, with associated permanent and temporary external works, including landscaping and construction of a MUGA.

The DPP team led the design team through pre-application discussions with the LPA and Historic England, and prepared the planning application XX.

The proposals will deliver modern, sustainable and state of the art buildings and facilities to students and staff. The development will also significantly boost the quality, accessibility, and capacity of Polam Hall School for the surrounding areas, ensuring it can continue to provide high-quality education.

Achievements

The Site is located within the West End Conservation Area and comprises the Grade II listed Polam Hall and two non-designated heritage assets. Responding to the Site’s heritage sensitivity, DPP led close collaboration with the design team and the Local Planning Authority, shaping the proposals through informed discussion and negotiation. The preparation and presentation of a clear and compelling Public Benefits Case, evidencing substantial social, economic, environmental and heritage benefits, was key to securing planning approval.

DPP also planned and delivered a public consultation event, enabling residents, councillors and other stakeholders to engage with the proposals and raise questions directly with the design team and client. Following consideration by the planning committee, planning permission was granted on 16^th January 2026