Seven new children centres

Design and project management of seven children centres

Unity was recently awarded a £2m commission to provide a range of professional property services for seven children’s centres across Oldham Borough as part of the council’s phase two Sure Start children’s centre programme.

The children’s centre programme is a government initiative which aims to achieve better outcomes for children, parents and communities by increasing the availability of childcare, improving the health and development for young children, and supporting parents in their aspirations towards employment.

The Property team provides architectural, quantity surveying, and mechanical and electrical services for the new build and refurbishment of centres on various sites, including: Blackshaw Lane, a former children’s home; Cockroft Hall Community Centre; Heathcot Nursery; Holts Community Centre; and Bare Trees, St Luke’s and St Thomas schools.

Mike Parker, Unity’s Head of Architecture, said: “We understand and appreciate the potential contribution that early intervention with very young children can make to their later lives, and we fully subscribe to the value of the Sure Start children’s centre programme.”

Tony Muir, Director of Property for the Unity Partnership, commented on the commission: “This is a significant and meaningful piece of work for our property team. It is a big project and it demonstrates how Unity can play an important role in the regeneration of Oldham.”