Revisions for the design of the new building for The Forest High School relocation to Allambie Heights have been released, showing a shift from four-storey buildings to two-storey structures that will not ruin the neighbourhood streetscape and character.
School Infrastructure NSW took the feedback of the community in considering the changes after complaints that the original four-storey building designs were too big.
Following further architectural studies, reducing the building’s height to two storey and dividing the structures into smaller spaces may also significantly improve the travel time around the planned campus.
The design changes also includes configuring the sports courts to the west side of the property with the gymnasium relocated to overlook the sports field. Ramps, stairs and lifts, multiple undercover and courtyards will be added throughout the school site to allow the students and staff options for different modes of travel and maximum use of the outdoor spaces.
Per School Infrastructure NSW, “the design for The Forest High School has continued to be developed in consultation with department experts, school representatives and the Project Reference Group.”
Actual construction of The Forest High School in Allambie Heights has not yet been determined, pending the approval of the development application and the tender process. However, School Infrastructure NSW anticipates that the existing building, McLeod House, will be demolished by late 2022 to prepare for the new site.
The Forest High School is relocating from its Frenchs Forest site as the suburb is undergoing significant changes to create a new town centre. Moving the school to Allambie Heights will benefit the town centre planning.
The new site was selected because it is already serviced by gas, water, electricity, stormwater and public transport, aside from providing the right size and space for The Forest High School’s intake.