Hookway Partnership LLP were appointed to lead the urgent replacement of life-expired asbestos curtain walling and glazing systems to the Maths Block at St Peter’s Catholic High School in Gloucester. The project was funded through the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) 2025/26, with funding secured following a comprehensive technical submission prepared by Hookway. This is the latest Hookway project at St Peters, after previously completing heating refurbishments and air-source heat pump installation, and extensive fire safety upgrades, all delivered via CIF funding.
The Challenge
The block, originally constructed in the 1960s, had not undergone major refurbishment since installation. Over time, the asbestos cement cladding and glazed screens had deteriorated significantly, presenting serious health, safety and compliance concerns. The condition surveys identified the Maths Block envelope as one of the most critical estate risks facing the school.
Key Risks Identified:
- Loose and failing asbestos cement cladding, with panels cracked, slipping and at risk of falling during adverse weather
- Structural movement within the curtain wall frame, with visible separation from the primary structure
- Extensive water ingress and draughting, resulting in damaged internal finishes and slip hazards
- Failed double-glazed units, deteriorated gaskets and perimeter sealants
- Thermally inefficient building fabric contributing to excessive energy loss
- Missing fire stopping and lack of cavity fire breaks
- Risk of block closure if intervention did not proceed
Independent inspections confirmed the asbestos cladding was at end of life, with widespread cracking, missing fixings and deteriorating timber support structures. Without intervention, the school faced:
- Potential building closure within 12 months
- Temporary accommodation costs exceeding £50,000 for short-term hire
- Continued escalation in reactive maintenance costs
Hookway’s Role
Hookway Partnership LLP provided full professional services including:
- Preparation and submission of the CIF funding bid
- Technical analysis and specification development
- Procurement advice and tender administration
- Contract administration under JCT Standard Building Contract (2016)
- Principal Designer duties under CDM Regulations 2015
Scope of Works
The project involved:
- Full removal of asbestos cement cladding and curtain wall system
- Replacement with high-performance composite wall system
- Installation of thermally efficient aluminium glazing
- Fire-rated insulation and fire stopping at all penetrations
- Structural tie-back improvements to curtain wall framing
- Upgraded ventilation performance
Project Outcome
The completed scheme has:
- Eliminated the risk of falling asbestos debris
- Restored structural integrity to the curtain wall system
- Improved thermal efficiency and reduced heat loss
- Enhanced ventilation and classroom comfort
- Strengthened fire safety performance
- Secured the long-term viability of the Maths Block
The refurbishment protects the school from future block closure and provides a compliant, safe and sustainable learning environment for pupils and staff.