Demolition of Wolverhampton school building dating to 1910 begins

The demolition of an historic former primary school in Wolverhampton has begun, with a modern technology academy due to be built in its place.

Demolition work at the former Edward the Elder primary school building in Lichfield Road, Wednesfield, has now begun. Photo: Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Developers are currently part way through bulldozing the old Edward the Elder site in Lichfield Road, Wednesfield.

Although not listed, the landmark structure – one of the city’s oldest remaining school buildings – dates back to 1910 but has stood empty and almost forgotten since 2007.

Now Birmingham-based Tilbury Douglas Construction Ltd is busy clearing the site in readiness for the building of the new Wednesfield Technology Primary School, which will be run by the Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust.

A design and access statement submitted to the council along with the plans for the academy said: “The proposal is to develop a building and entire school site that will enhance the local environment and respond to the local surroundings and community.

“The new school will be designed and built to inspire new ways of technology-enabled thinking, focused on providing high-quality education and providing pupils with real-world learning experiences.”

Wolverhampton’s education chief, Labour councillor Chris Burden (Fallings Park), said that although it was sad to see the old building demolished, the new school would provide a wealth of modern facilities for a wide range of pupils.

“While I am certainly sorry to see the demolition of a former school building, unfortunately the previous one-form entry school couldn’t be reused effectively for modern teaching,” he said.

“I know lots of people will have fond memories of their time at Edward the Elder, and I’ve enjoyed hearing these stories myself and hearing about the fantastic experiences people have had there.

The former Edward the Elder primary school building in Lichfield Road, Wednesfield, prior to demolition beginning. Photo: Joe Sweeney/Local Democracy Reporting Service.

“This new rebuild will deliver a school which is accessible for all students, regardless of their mobility needs, and within the latest specifications.

“I hope that 100 years from now, people will fondly remember the time they spent at this new school, as it provides for the hundreds of new families who live in Wednesfield,” added Councillor Burden, who is the cabinet member for education, skills and work.

The new school is expected to open in September 2023.