Sadness over plan to demolish historic school building in Wolverhampton
A former primary school building in Wolverhampton that dates back to 1910 is facing the bulldozer – if recently submitted plans get the go-ahead.
The historic Edward the Elder building in Lichfield Road, Wednesfield, has stood empty and almost forgotten since 2007.
Now Birmingham-based developers Tilbury Douglas Construction Ltd have submitted a prior notification of demolition to the council with a view to razing the premises – one of the city’s oldest remaining school buildings – and building a modern technology academy in its place.
Tally Khakh said: “I attended this school when it was called Wednesfield Village Primary School, as did all four of my siblings. I am now 35.
“It was my school experience here that led me to want to teach. The teachers made a long-lasting impression. They really inspired me and taught me how to play a vital role in a child’s life.
“I currently work in a school myself and have worked in early years education for 15 years now. I believe the planned academy will serve Wednesfield well and will bring valuable, excellent education to children in the area.
“The village is lacking in schools for those living nearby. It was very disheartening seeing the building close and the community growing,” she added.
“I understand the building dates back to 1910. However, it has been left to decay and open to vandalism.
“I feel the proposed plan for a school – especially a technology primary – will support the coming generation to give them the skills and education they will need. I would much rather see a school than houses being built on the site.”
Fellow ex-pupil Steven Harris said: “I attended this school briefly in 1964-65 when it was called Lichfield Road School. It was used as overspill classrooms for Russell Close County Primary School in Ashmore Park, which has since been demolished.
“I have very happy memories of looking through the playground fence and watching the tractors in the fields that used to be there, and the boats on the canal.
“Wednesfield has so very few historic buildings left, and I am very sad to think that yet another one may disappear forever.”
Amanda Moses added: “My siblings and I all went to it when it was called Chadsway Primary School, I’m very, very sad to hear there are plans to demolish it.
“I know my brother and sister will be upset too. It would be nice to have a look around once more. I really don’t want them to knock it down.”
One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “Whilst it’s a shame to see old architecture go, has anyone considered that it may be safer and more cost-effective to pull the old building down ? Especially if it has asbestos in it.
“At the end of the day, the new school needs to be safe, economical to run and have the longevity to last just as long as the building that is there now.”
In a report submitted alongside the prior notification of demolition, Tom Hallett of Manchester-based Q+A Planning Ltd – agents acting on behalf of the applicants – said: “The building has been vacant and part-derelict for over a decade. Demolition is required in order to develop a new school on the site.
“The existing lodge building will be retained and refurbished. Demolition, which is planned for May 12, will commence with a soft strip where possible – including the removal of asbestos.
“All the relevant services have written proof of disconnection and the area is safe to demolish. The Health and Safety Executive will be notified of all relevant works prior to commencement.
“Asbestos removal will be carried out under controlled conditions by fully licensed removal contractors. Once the soft strip has been completed, the working face of the building will become a drop zone for debris.
“Structural demolition will then commence using plant machinery with dust suppression measures in place. The demolition will be done on a bay-by-bay basis until all areas are complete,” he added.
“A planning application for the proposed redevelopment of the site to provide a new technology primary school will then be submitted to the local planning authority.”
Mr Hallett said that a leaflet drop would be made to residents, surrounding businesses and ward members in the coming days. The leaflet will invite interested residents to view a dedicated webpage where they can view more details about the proposals.
If the demolition plans are given full clearance, the new school is scheduled to be ready for occupation in September 2023.
