Tribute to school architect

Pupils, parents and staff at the new Sutton Primary School and village hall are to have a lasting tribute to the architect behind the building.

Herefordshire Council architect Jed Bayley came up with the original design for the striking new building which was completed during the summer term.

Sadly, Jed died before construction work had begun.

The new building - costing more than £2 million - boasts underfloor heating and advanced classroom technology and gives youngsters a lighter, brighter modern school building, which also has a village hall for locals.

"This was a real community project," said Colin Birks, the council's property operations manager.

"It's a school designed for the 21st century with many innovative features. Sustainability was always an important consideration in Jed's design and so the school has a grey water system to use rain water from the roofs to wash down the toilets, natural ventilation and high levels of insulation.

"It was tragic that Jed died before work started on the construction of the building and he was not able to see his idea come into fruition.

"Jed was an excellent architect who, in addition to Sutton School, designed the new sixth form blocks at John Masefield and John Kyrle high schools.

"We're delighted that the school and community have agreed to a bench in his memory and the access road to the school is to be named Bayley Way," added Colin.

Head teacher Paul Whitcombe said: "Pupils, staff and parents are delighted with our new premises. We believe it is a truly child centred design which accurately reflects Jedd's vision for a 21st century school.

"Our challenge is to make best use of these fantastic facilities."