Client: Balfour Beatty The Selly Park Girls’ School expansion project included a new science teaching block, providing state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, as well as an external escape stair and ramp. The development also involved internal remodelling of existing school buildings to optimise space and update outdated facilities. The new block offers much-needed, modern teaching spaces that enhance the school’s ability to support STEM education, fostering academic growth in a dynamic learning environment. The project’s design addressed various site challenges while upgrading the school's capacity to meet the needs of its growing student community. The expansion has created a more inclusive and innovative educational setting, making a lasting impact on both students and staff. Services we provided Acoustics, Air Quality & Environmental Modelling Ecology & Heritage Geotechnical & Ground Engineering Mechanical, Electrical & Building Services Structural Engineering Transport Planning & Traffic Engineering Water Engineering & Flood Risk Show More Our Role BWB was engaged to deliver a range of multi-disciplinary services for the Selly Park Girls’ School project, which included structural, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, along with transport, ecology, and noise assessments. Our primary responsibility was the design of the foundations and drainage systems for the new science block, ensuring the structure could safely accommodate potential ground heave resulting from the removal of mature trees on-site. Building superstructure The building’s superstructure comprised a specialist Structural Insulated Panel (SIPS) system, chosen for its lightweight properties and off-site fabrication, which suited the limited site access. The SIPS superstructure was erected on a traditional foundation and concrete slab, designed to accommodate complex site conditions, including adjacent buildings and underground services. BWB’s drainage design included sustainable water management strategies that adhered to Birmingham City Council’s regulatory requirements. Environmental expertise In addition to our structural and civil engineering contributions, our environmental team conducted flood risk assessments, ecology surveys, and noise impact studies to address potential site constraints and ensure compliance with planning regulations. Our transport assessments evaluated the impact of the new development on local traffic, and we developed a strategy to manage construction traffic through the narrow lane access, ensuring minimal disruption to school operations Modernisation goals We provided mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineering services to support the development’s modernisation goals. We designed electrical layouts and lighting plans that complemented the school’s commitment to sustainability. Our multi-disciplinary team worked closely with the contractor and architect throughout the project, providing on-site support and technical expertise to resolve unexpected conditions and ensure the successful delivery of the development.