The redevelopment of St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School has reached a significant milestone with an official steel signing ceremony at the new site.
The project is the final phase in the transformation of Barry’s four comprehensive schools, following the construction of new school buildings at Pencoedtre High and Whitmore High and the extension of Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg.
The steel signing marks a key stage in the development, which will see old buildings replaced with modern, purpose-built facilities for more than 1,100 pupils.
Representatives from the Vale of Glamorgan Council and developers Morgan Sindall signed one of the building’s steel beams as part of the new structure.
Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, said: “The redevelopment of St Richard Gwyn is an important part of our Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, which has transformed school facilities across the Vale.
“This steel signing ceremony is a significant milestone and an exciting reminder of the progress being made. Once complete, pupils and staff will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities designed to support learning, wellbeing and achievement for generations to come.
“Together with the developments at Pencoedtre, Whitmore and Bro Morgannwg, this project completes the transformation of secondary education in Barry and represents a major investment in the future of our young people.”
Work on the new school building is expected to be completed by next year, with the existing building due to be fully demolished by December 2028.
The new development will include modern classrooms, dedicated facilities for pupils with Additional Learning Needs (ALN), a school hall with professional sound and lighting systems, a 3G sports pitch and a Multi-Use Games Area that will also be available for community use.
Sustainability remains a key feature of the scheme, with eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems and solar technology helping to reduce carbon emissions and support the Council’s Project Zero commitment to become carbon neutral by 2030.
The development will also include green outdoor spaces, active travel facilities and a vegetation-covered roof that will provide environmental and drainage benefits.
