Multimillion-pound school building contract awarded to local firm

A local construction firm has been appointed to deliver a new specialist school near Newtown, marking a key step forward for the project.

Powys County Council has confirmed that SJ Roberts Construction, based at Marton, will build the new school for Brynllywarch Hall School in Kerry.

The new building will replace existing facilities on the current site and is designed to support pupils aged between 8 and 19 with emotional, behavioural and social needs.

According to the council, the project is part of its Strategy for Transforming Education in Powys, which focuses on improving learning environments and pupil outcomes across the county.

Plans for the site include specialist teaching spaces, breakout areas, outdoor learning zones and facilities to support the new national curriculum. Some parts of the site will also be available for community use outside school hours.

The building will include low-carbon features such as air-source heat pumps, solar panels, and mechanical ventilation heat-recovery systems, with the aim of achieving net-zero carbon operation.

Construction is expected to begin in Spring 2026, with completion planned for Autumn 2027.

Cllr James Gibson-Watt, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for Learning Powys, said the appointment of the contractor was an important milestone.

“Appointing SJ Roberts Construction is a key step for this project, which will provide a modern school environment that supports the needs and wellbeing of our learners,” he said.

SJ Roberts Construction said working on a project close to its headquarters was particularly important.

Managing Director Mike Sambrook said: “When a project is based close to home, it allows us to use our local knowledge and work closely with local suppliers, alongside specialist teams where needed.

“We’re looking forward to starting work and delivering a school that will support pupils and staff for years to come.”