Client

Bowmer & Kirkland

Local Authority

London Borough of Waltham Forest

Project Description

School redevelopment

DPP led the planning process on behalf of Bowmer and Kirkland and the Department for Education for the comprehensive redevelopment of Highams Park School in the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

The project involves the replacement of a number of ageing school buildings with a new three-storey teaching facility, providing modern classrooms and specialist learning spaces, together with a dining hall, main hall, dance studio, support facilities and significantly enhanced outdoor learning, recreation and sports provision, including a new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA). The redevelopment forms part of the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme and delivers a modern, accessible and net-zero carbon learning environment for future generations.

Working closely with Bowmer and Kirkland, Jestico and Whiles Architects, the local authority and key stakeholders, DPP managed the planning process from feasibility stage through to approval. This included extensive pre-application engagement, community consultation, and coordination of two Design Review Panel sessions that helped refine the scheme’s design, landscaping and accessibility credentials.

DPP successfully secured delegated planning approval in June 2024, enabling the delivery of a transformational investment in the school’s future. In addition to providing high-quality educational facilities, the scheme delivers enhanced sports provision, significant biodiversity improvements, extensive landscaping and increased accessibility across the campus. The project is currently under construction and the new building is due to open to pupils in September 2027.

Image Credit: Jestico and Whiles