Work begins on Oldfield Primary School after slow worm delay

Construction has started on the new Oldfield Primary School, after a short delay caused by a colony of slow worms.

The protected reptiles were found to be living in the Bray Road site, which the school is moving to from Chiltern Road in September 2015.

it is an offence to intentionally kill the legless lizard like creatures, and they are protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Ecologists trapped the carnivorous reptiles and moved them to safety. Contractor Leadbitter (Boygues UK) is now laying the foundations for the school, which will have room for 420 pupils.

Richard Jarrett, headteacher at Oldfield, said: “All the staff and children are excited that the work has finally started and our new school will soon start to take shape.

"We have involved the children in the process, including learning a little about the slow worms, and look forward to the pupils playing a key part in the grand opening next year."

Cllr Phill Bicknell, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “The starting of work to build what will be a fantastic school building complements the great work the school has done to achieve extremely high standards and its outstanding Ofsted rating.

“The regeneration of Maidenhead is really moving forward and one of the important aspects of this is to have excellent schools to give our children the very best start in life. I look forward to what will be a major contribution to the town and local children.”