Supporting education, community spaces and specialist care has been a clear focus this month. We’ve progressed plans for a new Student Hub at the University of Suffolk, advanced SEND provision in Lowestoft, and reached key milestones on projects in Leiston and Chesterfield. Alongside celebrating the completion of a revitalised community centre, we’ve reflected on past projects, shared insight through industry collaboration, and marked 13 years of Concertus. We hope you enjoy reading this month’s round up.

New Student Hub for the University of Suffolk
Following the successful completion of phase one works, we are pleased to be delivering an extensive internal refurbishment and remodelling of the former library building at the University of Suffolk.

The project will involve demolition and asbestos removal to transform the building into a new Student Hub, delivered through extensive internal reconfiguration, an overhaul of mechanical and electrical services, and building upgrades to improve accessibility throughout the building.

The reimagined building will feature informal social areas, bookable spaces for societies and clubs, prayer spaces, and dedicated gym and fitness studios, creating a welcoming, inclusive environment that supports student life beyond the classroom. We are pleased to be working with Pentaco Construction Ltd to deliver the scheme and look forward to sharing more about the project as it progresses.

New SEND Facilities in Lowestoft
We are currently on site with Brock FMD at Roman Hill Primary School, remodelling an existing standalone block to create 24 new Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) places, helping to meet growing demand for inclusive education within the local area on behalf of Suffolk County Council.

The scheme includes the remodelling of former staff rooms and classrooms with refurbishments throughout, to deliver high‑quality specialist accommodation, including a new group room designed to support tailored learning and small‑group activities.

The Paddocks Community Centre
The refurbishment of Paddocks Community Centre has now reached full completion, following the successful conclusion of the 12‑month defects period for the £2.3 million project.

Delivered in collaboration with Castle Point Borough Council and SEH French Limited, it’s great to see the local community now fully making use of their upgraded, revitalised space.

The refurbishment was identified through condition improvement plans and included extensive internal and external works, as well as upgrades to the electrical, heating, lighting, and ventilation systems. The project has delivered lasting improvements to both the building fabric and energy performance, ensuring the centre is better equipped to serve the community for many more years to come.

First Phase of Renovation Works Complete at Leiston School
We’re pleased to share that phase one of the renovation works at Alde Valley Academy in Leiston is complete. Delivered in collaboration with Kingfisher Schools Trust and Brooks & Wood Ltd, this phase focused on addressing critical building fabric issues to support the school’s long‑term performance and comfort.

Works included installing a new felt roof system with enhanced insulation to meet current Building Regulation requirements, replacing a roof in very poor condition. Alongside this, existing windows were replaced following damage caused by water ingress due to inadequate fixings. The completion of phase one marks an important milestone in improving the academy’s appearance, energy efficiency and internal environment for pupils and staff, with further works planned as the project progresses.

Spire Lodge Children’s Home Heads Towards Completion
The final push is underway at Spire Lodge in Chesterfield, with completion of the new Ashbrook building now firmly in sight and a welcome appearance of blue sky overhead as works progress on site.

Attention is currently focused on external works and landscaping, alongside building finishes and commissioning activities within the new home. Designed to provide a safe, supportive and nurturing environment, Spire Lodge will offer high‑quality facitilities to support children and young people.

We look forward to celebrating the completion of this important project for Derbyshire County Council alongside our delivery partner, Stepnell.

#ThrowbackThursday Projects
SEND Pod at Middleton Community Primary School, Derbyshire
Delivered for Derbyshire County Council with Ideal Building Systems Ltd, the new SEND pod was designed as a dedicated breakout space to support pupils who need additional teaching provision, providing accessible, high‑quality facilities for children aged 4–11.

Refurbishment of Princes Street Fire and Police Station, Ipswich
Working for Suffolk Fire & Police with R G Carter, the project transformed an outdated, no‑longer‑fit‑for‑purpose building into a modern blue light hub for Fire and Police services. Works involved stripping the structure back to its concrete frame before refurbishing and remodelling the space to meet the demands of today’s emergency services. Read the case study here.

Expansion of Fulbrook School, Bedfordshire
Working for Central Bedfordshire Council with SMD Ltd, the project delivered a new two‑storey standalone building comprising 12 classrooms and a modern sports hall, alongside significant improvements to the existing school estate. These works included a new drama studio, upgrades to the music facilities and offices, and enhancements to a separate classroom block.Read the case study here.

Concertus’ Collaboration with the CIOB
We took part in a case study event with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and Pentaco Construction Ltd, showcasing the delivery of Lakenheath Primary School.

The session focused on how strong collaboration has been central to success on a particularly challenging site. The project faced complex demands around acoustics, thermal efficiency and air tightness, alongside a mandate to achieve Net Zero in design. By putting theory into practice throughout the construction phase, the team has delivered solutions that combine high thermal performance with a ground-source heat pump (GSHP) and other renewable technology, demonstrating what can be achieved through shared ambition and the right approach.

Celebrating 13 Years of Concertus
To celebrate 13 years of Concertus, we reflected on just some of the fantastic projects we have delivered over the past 12 months. Projects that support communities, enable learning, and create lasting value for the people who use them.

This milestone is a testament to the dedication, collaboration and expertise of our colleagues, and the trust placed in us by our clients and project partners. Thank you to everyone who continues to support Concertus’ growth. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together and look forward to the opportunities ahead.