Herefordshire attracts international attention

A party of government ministers and senior civil servants from Mexico are to visit three of Herefordshire’s flagship building projects this month.

The delegation of 12 will visit Whitecross High School and Specialist Sports College, Hereford Magistrates Court and Hereford’s General Hospital on Tuesday 14th November. 

They will begin their tour at Whitecross High School where they will be welcomed to the county by Cllr Don Rule, then taken around the school by Denise Strutt, head of the school.

The visit has been organised by UK Trade and Investment Centre in response to a government drive to encourage other countries to look at projects funded through the Public Finance Initiative (PFI).  Last year, Herefordshire received a similar visit from Malaysian officials.

Under PFI agreements, the public sector is responsible for the services provided, while a private company is responsible for the building.

The new Whitecross High School, which has been heralded as one of the most eco-advanced schools in Europe, opened its doors to pupils earlier this year.

A list of green credentials includes its grass roof which supports local birds and insects, its intelligent building management system which ensures heat is only provided in spaces where it is needed and its regulated fresh air supply to all teaching areas to keep incoming air fresh.

Councillor Don Rule, cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “The county has three successful PFI projects, and the fact that we are attracting international attention shows that Herefordshire is at the forefront of innovative good practice globally.

“We welcome this visit and hope our guests will use their stay to enjoy some of the county’s hospitality and forge links with the school community.”

“We welcome the opportunity to share the excitement of our new buildings with our guests from Mexico,” said Denise Strutt, head teacher of Whitecross High School and Specialist Sports College.

“I particularly want them to be aware of the opportunities for our students to be part of the design of their school and the benefits they gain from being educated in state of the art facilities”