DELAYS caused by the coronavirus crisis mean a new high school will not open in time for the next academic year.

Ponteland’s new high school and leisure centre complex was expected to be completed in September, but the global pandemic means the opening date has now been pushed back to November.

It means the £42m complex will welcome pupils for the first time after the October half-term.

However, the efforts of construction company Kier to minimise the delay has seen stakeholders heap praise on the contractors.

Kieran McGrane, Ponteland High School's headteacher said: “Children returning to school in September will continue to attend the current high school site.

“Like everyone else, we are disappointed not to be starting the school year in the new building but have been equally impressed with the way the construction has been continued by Kier in very challenging circumstances.

“We also know that when we finally move in our students and staff will have an amazing environment.”

While many construction sites around the country closed during lockdown, the team from Kier and their subcontractors remained on site during the pandemic.

By adhering to government guidance, they have ensured maximum progress during the crisis.

Roddy Graham, project leader for Kier, said: “It has been a difficult few months for all in the construction industry, but we were determined to be able to progress with this project and set out a safe working plan.

“This plan split down subcontractors into ‘working squads’, focusing on specific areas of the site together at all times.

“This meant we continued to follow the Government restrictions and guidance in place at this time, whilst also being able to move forward with the development.”

Coun. Wayne Daley, cabinet member for children’s services and deputy leader of Northumberland County Council, added: “We have been blown away by the dedication of the team.

“It has done its utmost to work towards a September completion in time for the new school year, but despite best efforts, the restrictions imposed on operational construction sites, and the impact of the pandemic on the availability of overseas key components for the buildings has unfortunately resulted in a manageable delay.

“We want to reassure you that progress is being made and the development will be completed by the autumn. This scheme is iconic and were it not for the coronavirus outbreak we would have delivered this on time”