Construction of Taunton School’s new boarding houses, Jones and Keeling, continues to make excellent progress, with a number of significant milestones recently achieved as the project moves steadily towards completion.

Externally, the metal roofing, dormers and metal wall cladding are now nearing completion, while timber wall cladding has commenced, helping to define the buildings’ final appearance. The majority of external windows and doors have also been installed, with only those required for ongoing contractor access still to be fitted.

As part of the development’s sustainability strategy, photovoltaic panels have now been installed on the roofs and are ready for connection. During the October Half Term, utility providers will also complete the installation of new electrical and water supplies from the highway into the site.

Inside the buildings, mechanical and electrical first-fix works, as well as boarding and fire stopping, are progressing well. Plastering has now commenced throughout the houses, with some areas already receiving mist coat decorations, marking the transition towards the next phase of internal finishes.

Alongside the construction works, detailed planning continues behind the scenes, with the final specifications for fitted furniture and equipment currently being finalised in preparation for the fit-out stage.

The project remains on programme for practical completion in April/May 2027. This will be followed by a period of furniture installation and building set-up ahead of the opening of the new boarding houses.