HARLOW MP, Robert Halfon, has welcomed planning consent for a multi-million pound project to rebuild Burnt Mill Academy. The First Avenue-based school is currently located in 1960s facilities and is in urgent need of rebuilding. Following lobbying from Mr Halfon in Parliament, the Government confirmed the building project in July 2021 with progress being made at pace to open the new school site. 

Last night Harlow Council’s Development Management Committee approved the plans for the rebuilding of Burnt Mill Academy. The Department for Education and contractor B&K have delivered ambitious plans for state-of-the-art teaching facilities and last night’s planning consent is the next step in making these plans a reality for Harlow children.

This investment comes as part of the Government’s £500 million school rebuilding programme and is aimed at ensuring that all pupils benefit from new, modern, energy efficient school buildings. The rebuilds and refurbishments will create modern education environments, providing new facilities to ensure Harlow children have access to world class education facilities.

Commenting on the decision, Mr Halfon said, “I have worked tirelessly in Parliament to ensure Harlow schools are well funded and local children can access the very best education and apprenticeship opportunities across our town. The planning decision will ensure we can deliver a brand new building for Burnt Mill Academy.

“I have visited Burnt Mill Academy numerous times and have always been blown away by the students, teachers and support staff. They deserve a new building and I know it will benefit them all greatly. I look forward to seeing the plans and construction of the new school, sports centre and swimming pool in the coming months.”