Francis Construction has had the privilege of working with The Marist School since August 2025, delivering refurbishment and remodelling works within a live operational school environment. The project has required careful planning and coordination to safely manage construction activities alongside day-to-day school operations.
We have just completed a phase of the transformation of the Francoise Building into Central 55, a significant refurbishment project delivering a new refectory, kitchen and independent health centre through the reconfiguration of existing spaces.
Works included the isolation and diversion of services, demolition of internal partitions, installation of new structural elements and extensive mechanical and electrical upgrades throughout. Externally, new entrance ramps and bin stores were constructed, while internally the space was reconfigured to provide a fully operational catering environment including a kitchen, servery, wash-up areas, storage facilities and staff and pupil welfare spaces. Existing accommodation was also remodelled to create a standalone health centre complete with new entrances, fire exits and upgraded building services.
As with many refurbishment schemes, the project presented a number of unforeseen challenges once intrusive works commenced. During demolition, an unknown load-bearing wall extending almost the full length of the building was discovered. Temporary works were immediately implemented while a permanent structural solution was designed and coordinated.
Working closely with the consultant team, Francis Construction developed and delivered a revised structural strategy incorporating new steelwork and the cylindrical columns now visible within the finished space, allowing roof loads to be safely redistributed. Further investigations also identified that the existing floor construction differed from original assumptions, requiring redesign of the column foundation pads and additional structural coordination.
Through close collaboration, proactive problem-solving and flexible working, the team successfully navigated programme challenges while maintaining progress within a live school environment.
Completed in April 2026, Central 55 now provides a modern, high-quality environment that combines bespoke design, specialist kitchen installations and carefully considered finishes, creating a space with genuine impact for pupils and staff.
Works continue elsewhere on campus within the Rosary Building, where Francis Construction is currently remodelling the second floor to deliver 13 new boarding spaces together with dedicated staff accommodation, further enhancing the school’s future provision.
