Morgan Sindall has been appointed by Ealing Council to deliver a £29.3m redevelopment of Villiers High School in Southall, with sustainability placed at the core
Procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), the project will replace an outdated 1960s building with a new three-storey teaching block designed to significantly reduce operational carbon emissions and energy demand.
The new facility will deliver 22 classrooms, 11 science laboratories, and six ICT/media suites.
Low-carbon technologies
The development integrates a range of low-carbon technologies, including air source heat pumps, rooftop photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems, allowing a substantial proportion of the building’s energy to be generated on-site, reducing reliance on the grid and supporting the council’s wider net zero ambitions.
Green infrastructure is also central to the design
A rooftop sky garden and dedicated outdoor learning spaces will enhance biodiversity and provide environmental education opportunities, while plans for a surrounding Forest School further reinforce the scheme’s ecological focus.
Internally, the building has been designed to promote both sustainability and occupant wellbeing. Teaching spaces will maximise natural daylight and ventilation, while carefully considered acoustic performance and nature-inspired materials aim to create a healthier, more productive learning environment.
Manjinder Bains, director of finance and resources at Villiers High School, said: “This project is about long-term thinking. We are replacing an inefficient building with one that is fit for the future, environmentally, operationally, and educationally. It strengthens our estate while aligning with our wider sustainability ambitions across the site.”
Employment and skills programme
The project will also deliver social sustainability through a targeted employment and skills programme. Delivered in partnership with Ealing Council, West London College, Jobcentre Plus, Construction Youth Trust and Bounce Back, the initiative includes site tours, training and careers engagement, alongside commitments to create 10 jobs, three apprenticeships, 16 work experience placements and a T-Level opportunity.
Richard Dobson, area director for Morgan Sindall Construction in London, said: “With all the development taking place in the Southall area thanks to the creation of the Elizabeth line, it’s vital that the local educational infrastructure can meet the demands of the growing community.
“This is why we’re delighted to have been appointed to support Villiers High School’s expansion, as not only is the new Eco Teaching block going to make a real difference to the area’s students, teachers and families, but we’ve developed a comprehensive social value plan that will really maximise the learning and employment opportunities generated by such a project.”
Construction began in spring 2026, with completion scheduled for late 2027.
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