Market engagement launched for £64m Berwick Academy rebuild

Northumberland Council will be holding in-person supplier sessions on 22 October, ahead of a two-stage tender process that will begin in December with a contractor appointed next spring.

The scheme will involve the construction of replacement school buildings on the existing site, including a new SEND unit, hockey pitch, and a 3G sports facility.

Once complete, the existing facilities will be demolished.

Construction is expected to begin in September 2026 and take around two years before opening for the academic year in 2028.

The project, which was given the green light at a council meeting at the end of September, has been hit by budget concerns in recent weeks, with costs increasing by around £5m.

The Department for Education was asked to fund £13m of the scheme, but has refused, leaving Northumberland Council faced with funding the entire package.

Around £50m of the project’s budget is earmarked for construction costs.

Contractors are able to attend the event at West Hartford Fire Station, which will consist of a presentation followed by one-to-one supplier sessions to explore innovation and social value. Those who wish to attend can email their details to the council.