Coulson were appointed as main contractor to carry out the complete refurbishment to the drama theatre room and music room at Samuel Ward Academy in Haverhill.

Originally a dated assembly hall and music room, the building was stripped back to its original structure with some major structural works required of which included a new steel goalpost to the theatre room.  A steel mezzanine floor was also formed to  house the control room, stores and plant room. The existing external walls were lined with an acoustic panelling to assist with the acoustics for the room. Externally a new large AHU was installed along with fencing and EV chargers to the existing car park.

Early engagement with the two key suppliers,  stage seating and lighting rig, were key to the success of the project due their lengthy lead in periods and critical nature to the project.

The finished space in now a state of the art theatre, complete with 279 retractable seats, top of the line stage lighting and sound system. This impressive new facility will provide students with a professional grade space to explore their creativity and showcase their talents.

Working within a live school site and its constraints, we successfully navigated the project throughout the autumn and winter term without any disturbance to the school through appropriate mitigation measures. The project was handed over on time and within the original budget.