School board chooses architect to design two new schools

By Renée Rodgers

A Brantford-based architectural firm has been selected to design and oversee the construction of two new elementary schools in Stirling and Tweed.

Ventin Group Ltd. was approved by the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board at a board meeting Sept. 26.

The Ministry of Education has approved funding of $19.2-million for construction of new schools in Stirling and Tweed to replace and consolidate existing school buildings.

Ventin Group, which has a satellite office in Belleville, achieved the highest score ranking by the board after a detailed analysis of each of the 15 applicants’ qualifications, experience, project management skills, understanding of the 21st Century design concept for student needs, extent of services and proposed fees.

The firm has school project experience throughout Ontario and offered excellent references, said the board. The firm also offered the lowest cost of services out of all firms that submitted applications.

Dave Rutherford, superintendent of business services, estimated the new schools would be open by next fall.

“It would be a planning year this year with construction beginning next June or July for completion and opening the following September,” he said.