Willmott Dixon has secured a £23m ($29.14m) contract with Surrey County Council in the UK to construct a new 'Net Zero Carbon Special Free School'.
It will serve as a new home for Hopescourt School in Walton-on-Thames.
The project, set to be completed in early 2026, will provide an advanced learning environment for 200 pupils with autism aged four to 19 years, along with those having communication and interaction needs.
Hopescourt School, which opened temporarily in West Molesey in September this year, marks a significant step in Surrey's special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) programme.
The permanent facility in Walton-on-Thames will embody Surrey County Council's dedication to inclusive education.
Procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), the new school will be designed to achieve net-zero in operation standards.
This initiative aligns with Willmott Dixon's portfolio of similar educational projects aimed at sustainability, including the Bridgend College redevelopment and the new campus for Wigan & Leigh College.
Willmott Dixon's pipeline of Passivhaus, net-zero carbon, and Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method Outstanding projects is currently valued at more than £1.4bn.
Collaborating with HNW Architects, Willmott Dixon will focus on creating a nurturing environment at Hopescourt School.
The design includes specialised teaching and learning spaces, outdoor learning areas, and facilities for music and other enriching activities, all tailored to the unique needs of the students.
Willmott Dixon South managing director Richard Poulter said: “This new school represents a crucial investment in our community, offering children with additional needs a dedicated environment where they can thrive. We are proud to support a project that will have such a positive, lasting impact on families in the area.”
SCF senior framework manager James Wright said: “We are excited to see Hopescourt School progress, and are proud to support Surrey County Council and Willmott Dixon in delivering this flagship project that will create an inclusive educational environment for all.”
