Work Begins on the Redevelopment of the Dining Hall at Lingfield College

The redevelopment aims to transform these spaces into vibrant, modern facilities that will benefit both students and staff. The new dining hall will be completely refitted, with a new entrance, improved servery counters, a new staircase to the first-floor area, better air quality and lighting, and comfortable seating. Additionally, the upgraded catering facilities will support the preparation of high-quality meals, ensuring a superior dining experience.

Originally built as the school gymnasium in 1961 and converted in 2002, the Dining Hall has long been a central hub for the community. However, its current structure has limitations that have become increasingly apparent over time. Given its initial intention, the space was not designed to meet the needs of a modern dining facility. This redevelopment will address those limitations with improved accessibility and ease of flow, creating an efficient and inviting space.

Head of External Relations, Caroline Wren, who is leading the project, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, "It is an exciting time of transformation for Lingfield College, with this first phase of redevelopment at the Senior School and also the creation of a new Astro at the Prep School in the pipeline. It is wonderful to see our plans taking shape as we look to the school's future."

The new dining hall will provide a brighter space with more natural light, improving the overall dining experience. Enhanced heating and air handling systems will ensure a comfortable environment year-round. The revamped facade of the Performing Arts building, along with the new entrance and landscaping, will create a more welcoming and accessible environment.

Headmaster Richard Bool emphasised the project's importance; "This redevelopment is a crucial step in enhancing our school's facilities. We believe that what happens at mealtimes has a powerful impact on the rest of the day. We are creating a welcoming facility to give our students and staff space to sit, talk, and eat together in a beautifully designed and relaxing dining area.”

He added, “This project has been carefully planned, and we are delighted that the works have now begun. The project will be managed to ensure minimal disruption to the school community, and we are committed to delivering an outstanding facility on budget and on time."

Lingfield College has established a reputation for prioritising health and physical well-being. Lunchtimes and the dining experience are central to the school day, and our responsibility is to help students be their healthiest selves and support a balanced lifestyle. These exciting developments reflect our commitment to investing in our school to provide a first-rate educational environment. The plans follow the recent redevelopment of a Science Lab at the Prep School earlier in the term and the renovation of the Prep School playgrounds and Foundation Stage Classrooms in 2022.

Renovations will continue through the summer holidays and into the autumn term, with the new dining room expected to open in early 2025. While the space is closed, a temporary dining hall will be constructed with marquees on the lawns outside the building. Mrs. Wren added, "We will do our best to make dining as excellent as it always has been because the benefits in the long run will be great."

The project, carried out by Uprise Construction Services Limited, will be carefully managed to ensure minimal disruption to the school community. We are excited to unveil these fantastic new facilities in the new year and look forward to their positive impact on our school environment.

Stay tuned for further announcements as the work progresses.