Abraham Darby Academy opening date put back

The opening date of the new £35 million Abraham Darby Academy School in Telford has been put back after the collapse of a steel canopy during building work at the site, council chiefs said today.

It had been due to open in January before the incident last month, which left five workers injured.

Education bosses at Telford & Wrekin Council today insisted the new academy's opening would not be rushed. However, they said they could not confirm a new planned opening date.

But they said Woodlands Primary School will move into the new Abraham Darby Sports and Learning Community as planned at the start of the spring term.

Councillor Paul Watling said: "What happened was a bit of a shock at the time but we are pleased that we have been able to make a firm decision that Woodlands Primary School should be able to move into the new building as planned in January.

"It is disappointing that the academy's move will be delayed but in the circumstances it is unavoidable."

He said a date would be set as soon as possible.