Case Study
Ysgol Treferthyr
Location:
Criccieth, Gwynedd
Project type:
New-build primary school
Project value:
Circa £8 million
Client:
Welsh Government, Cyngor Gwynedd / Wynne Construction
Completion:
2024
Project overview
JPS supported Wynne Construction in the delivery of Ysgol Treferthyr, a new-build primary school in Criccieth, Gwynedd. Commissioned by the Welsh Government through the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, alongside Cyngor Gwynedd, the project replaced an existing 119 place school with a modern facility designed to accommodate 150 pupils.
The brief required a school that would increase capacity, enhance learning environments, and provide flexible teaching spaces, including six classrooms, a hall, kitchen, and multipurpose room. Sustainability was central to the project, with a target of achieving BREEAM Excellent alongside a requirement for a cost-conscious, low-carbon structural solution delivered within a tight programme.
The engineering challenge
The scheme presented several challenges, including:
- Variable and complex ground conditions requiring assessment of multiple foundation solutions.
- Integration of sustainability measures such as natural ventilation, photovoltaic panels, solar gain, and air source heat pumps.
- Careful cost control while meeting low-carbon objectives.
- Coordination of on-site works with off-site highways and drainage approvals.
The engineering solution
JPS was responsible for:
- Structural engineering design of the steel frame and foundations.
- Civil engineering design, including SUDs and ground modelling.
- 3D modelling to support option appraisal and design development.
- Engineering support associated with off-site highways improvements.
- Coordination with off-site highways works and ensuring the scheme met technical, regulatory, and sustainability requirements.
- Close collaboration with Wynne Construction, the architect, and local authorities ensured a coordinated and practical approach throughout the project lifecycle.
The outcome
- A modern, safe learning environment for 150 pupils.
- Coordinated civil and structural designs delivered to programme and budget.
- Sustainability measures aligned with the project’s BREEAM Excellent aspirations.
- Successful integration of highways and drainage improvements.
- Positive stakeholder feedback reflecting clear communication and practical engineering input.
- The school opened in September 2024, providing improved educational facilities for the local community.
