O’Neill Associates acted as planning consultant for a Local Education Authority to secure outline planning permission for the development of three new primary schools. The need to replace the schools was urgent due to the poor physical condition of their buildings and the sub-standard level of accommodation that was available to pupils and staff. Each scheme had to ensure that provision was made for various community and recreational activities, meaning that dual-use of buildings and flexibility of design was a key requisite of the design brief. The process involved extensive negotiation and consultation with a wide client group, local residents, Ward Councillors and Council officers. Security concerns and facilities were an additional issue and were resolved satisfactorily via close liaison with the Police Architectural Liaison Officer.
