PSA provided full mechanical and electrical design services for a £2.5m extension at Newfield SEN School, working alongside Wilson Mason Architects for Blackburn with Darwen Council. The project supports the creation of additional specialist teaching space tailored to pupils with complex needs, while fitting seamlessly into the existing school environment. From early design stages, the focus has been on creating comfortable, easy-to-manage spaces that support learning, staff wellbeing and long-term operational efficiency.
CLIENT: Wilson Mason Architects
LOCATION: Blackburn, Lancashire
VALUE: £2.5m
SERVICES: Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
SECTOR: Special Educational Needs School
CLIENT OBJECTIVES SPECIFIC FOR SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS SCHOOL
Blackburn with Darwen Council required a new extension at Newfield SEN School to provide additional, purpose-built accommodation that meets the needs of pupils with special educational needs. The priority was to create calm, comfortable learning environments that support a wide range of sensory and physical requirements, while being straightforward for staff to operate and maintain.
The new building services needed to integrate smoothly with the existing school, avoiding unnecessary complexity or disruption. Energy efficiency and long-term running costs were also key considerations, with the council seeking solutions that were practical, reliable and appropriate for a busy educational setting.
Close collaboration between the design team was essential to ensure the building services supported the wider design intent and could be delivered within the budget and programme.
OUR SOLUTION BESPOKE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS SETTING
PSA worked closely with Wilson Mason Architects and the wider project team to develop a coordinated mechanical and electrical design that responds to the specific needs of an SEN environment. Our approach focused on simple, robust systems that provide consistent comfort, good air quality and intuitive control for staff, while supporting the council’s objectives around energy efficiency and long-term value.
The design was developed with a clear understanding of how the spaces will be used, ensuring services are discreet, safe and easy to manage within a school setting.
Key elements of the design include:
- Heating and hot water systems
- Mechanical ventilation
- LED lighting
- Power and small power systems
- Fire alarm, emergency lighting and life safety systems
THE OUTCOME
The Newfield SEN School extension is due for completion in 2026. PSA’s full M&E design will support the delivery of calm, functional and efficient learning spaces that are well suited to the needs of pupils and staff. The project reflects a collaborative approach and a clear focus on practical engineering that will serve the school and council well into the future.
Other Special Educational Needs Projects: Sandgate SEND School – PSA
Images courtesy of Wilson Mason Architects
