As part of its ongoing STEM programme, Avove invited pupils to share their ideas for redesigning the school’s garden, with the winning entry helping shape the final project.
Completed during the half-term break, the transformation has created a safe, sustainable outdoor learning environment that supports curriculum-based activities while encouraging pupils to engage with nature and the environment.
The activity has been carried out alongside soon‑to‑be completed works at Southfields which are part of Northumbrian Water’s £8 million investment in sewer network upgrades in the village, comprising two consecutive schemes that will reduce spills from two storm overflows by more than 65 per cent.
The initiative included full site preparation and levelling to create a safe and accessible environment, alongside the installation of Hydrorock – a sustainable water management system. Impact‑absorbing play bark and playmat surfaces have also been installed to improve safety, with a pathway improving accessibility and supervision.
Meanwhile, new turfing has created a greener and more inviting space, supported by an established management period to ensure its long‑term durability. The team also installed a new storage shed, a low‑maintenance composite bench, and dedicated planting beds for flowers and vegetables, providing additional spaces for learning.
The initiative reflects the project’s deep‑rooted connection to the community and Avove’s wider commitment to improving the areas in which its colleagues work and live.
Matthew Simpson, Project Manager at Avove, commented:
“I’m delighted to see all the works at Pelton Primary School come together as well as they have. As a former pupil of the school, I felt a personal attachment to the project and so I wanted to make sure that all enhancements were thoroughly delivered, providing long‑term value to the school, its pupils and the wider community.
“I have a lot of fond memories from my time at the school and wanted to help create more for the pupils that are here today. It’s very rewarding to see all our plans come to fruition in the way we intended, with new facilities for everyone to enjoy. I’d like to thank the school for their patience and support throughout the delivery of these works, which stand to benefit the wider community.”
Chris Bond, Project Manager at Northumbrian Water, said:
“It’s been great for the project team to get so closely involved with the staff and pupils at Pelton Primary School, to leave really positive, lasting changes to their environment. Our investment in Pelton is all about making a difference and improving the local environment, and this takes it even further, with enhancements that everyone can be proud of, having directly played a part in shaping the new-look garden area.”
Avove supports clients in delivering industry‑leading performance against their regulatory targets by designing, building and maintaining the UK’s utility infrastructure, transforming local communities for the better. As an official partner, Avove joins Northumbrian Water and its supply chain partners to deliver large‑scale construction programmes, creating economic growth and opportunities across the region.
