Lytle Associates Architects first prepared a masterplan for Guildford County School in the autumn term of 2012.  Over the following 8 years we have successfully delivered a new art block, whole building refurbishments, a 3 storey classroom infill extension, roof space conversion and a new multi-use games pitch.

A new full size sports hall was the last major phase in that original masterplan, and the handover of that facility this month marks a significant milestone for the school.

Guildford County School occupies a tight urban site close to the town centre.  As the only secondary school in Surrey to not have a fully sized Sports Hall or Multi Use Games Area, the case for development was strong, but the logistics of fitting the new accommodation on to the site were extremely complex. In order to achieve the internal height of the sports hall required by Sport England, but minimise impact on neighbouring residential properties, the decision was taken to create a 4m deep basement, keeping the roof height of the new building in line with the adjacent and original buildings. The curved roof profile and timber cladding also work to soften the external appearance. Tucked behind the hall itself, new changing rooms, a studio, fitness suite and teaching space have added valuable sports provision for the school and community.

Lytle Associates have been delighted to work with the school to achieve successful planning permission, assist with funding bids and guide the construction of the new facility through an extremely challenging time, ready, as planned, for the start of term in September 2020.  We wish the School staff and pupils many happy years and sporting success.