UK-based Willmott Dixon has been appointed as a contractor to deliver a new children’s home on the outskirts of Sleaford, Lincolnshire, UK.

Funded by the UK Department for Education, the scheme will provide care for some of Lincolnshire’s most vulnerable children while serving as a national resource for secure accommodation.

Last week, Lincolnshire County Council's planning and regulatory committee accepted plans for the 28-bed facility, which will be located near Bonemill Lane on the outskirts of town.

Willmott Dixon director Nick Heath said: “This is a hugely significant scheme, not only for Lincolnshire to address an acute need for secure accommodation, but also for the wider country as it will bring together best practice from across the UK and Europe.

“The new building has been designed to support the young people to get their lives 'back on track' using a whole host of facilities including on-site education, well-being, vocational and sports facilities, as well as delivering against important sustainability credentials to make the building’s legacy especially evident.”

The development will also include the construction of a new service road, a car park, a surface water attenuation pond, and the addition of landscaped areas.

With aims to reach nearly net zero in operations, the building’s design will mostly be supported by solar panels and advanced power storage.

Kier is the architect for the project, which has been procured through Pagabo’s Major Works framework.

Lincolnshire County Council's executive member councillor for children’s services Patricia Bradwell said: “The new secure home will provide a much-improved environment for the young people living and educated there and help to meet the increased national demand for spaces. It will make sure these children are offered the required support, training and guidance in modern facilities.”