A headteacher has responded to comments made after school redevelopment plans went on display.

Hertswood Academy shared designs for the new three-storey building, which will house 1,400 pupils, at a recent exhibition.

Construction companies Willmott Dixon and Bellway Homes also displayed plans at the exhibition as part of the Elstree Corridor scheme, which aims to provide more housing developments in Borehamwood.

After members of the public raised concerns about the plans, headteacher Peter Gillett spoke to The Borehamwood Times.

Q: While the Sports Hall is due to be rebuilt under your current plans, what will happen to the squash courts?

Mr Gillett: “The provision of squash courts is currently being looked at by the council and the school, which will have a result by the time the planning application has been submitted. Although at the moment they are not included in our plans, they are certainly not being ignored and we are having discussions about the future of our sports facilities.

Q: What will happen to the Ark Theatre? Will it be smaller?

Mr Gillett: “We have included the theatre into our community space, where it will have the same square metreage as the current theatre along with the exact same seating. Many users of the Ark say that it can get really hot in there during a performance, but our new space will be well ventilated and supported.”

Q: Will there still be a space for dancers?

Mr Gillett: “We have a double height activities studio as part of our sports and community, which will be used by dance classes. Like the theatre, this will also be well ventilated and supported. There is the opportunity for discussion about this space, so we can find out what else the community would like to use it for such as martial arts or fitness lessons.”

A planning application is due to be submitted by the school on July 17, which will include results of all current discussions being had about the site.

Mr Gillett added: “We are looking forward to providing the world class educational facilities that this town deserves.”