Building work to start on college site

The second phase of works to refurbish Parkfield’s MyPlace building in Paignton starts next week.

Contractor Mercury will remodel the interior of the premises to make the space more multi-functional.

The building is now home to Mayfield College, which began its gradual move there following the first phase of renovations over the summer. It has outgrown its Occombe House site.

The work is due to finish at the end of January, some four months ahead of schedule.

Mercury, a Devon-based construction firm, will use local suppliers for materials and labour and is developing social value plans to give back to the local community.

The project is being funded by high needs provision capital allocations. This is government money paid to local councils to support the provision of new places and improve existing provision for children with SEND or who require alternative provision.

The refurbished premises will feature cutting-edge technology, dedicated spaces for extracurricular activities, and a welcoming environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

The building will still be available for use by young people in the evenings, weekends and school holidays.

Mayfield headteacher Stuart Heron said: “Mayfield College has had a fantastic start at Parkfield, with 45 students now making full use of the building’s facilities. The location has proven to be a real asset, offering easy access to key community resources such as Paignton Library, the bus station, and the train station – all just a short walk away.

“Both students and staff are incredibly grateful for this wonderful space. We’re also eagerly anticipating the planned internal developments, which will allow even more of our college community to benefit from being based at Mayfield Parkfield.”

Councillor Nick Bye, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is a great example of how we can make better use of existing buildings to support young people in Torbay.

“The refurbishment of MyPlace will help meet the growing demand for specialist education, while still keeping the space available for youth activities. I’m pleased to see local suppliers and community projects benefiting too.”

Larisa Conman, Business Development Manager at Mercury Construction, said: “We are thrilled to continue our work with Torbay Council on the second phase of this important project. Having previously collaborated with the council, we are committed to delivering the scheme to the highest standards.

“Recently joining Build Torbay has strengthened our engagement with the local construction community. Social value plans for this project are currently being developed, and we are excited to deliver initiatives that will support sustainability, carbon awareness, and creative community activities alongside our construction works.”

Parkfield was built as a dedicated space for community youth services and includes a BMX track, skate park and the MyPlace building.

People’s Parkfield CIC currently manages the wider Parkfield site and the older Parkfield House building closer to Paignton seafront.