Chelmsford Grammar School (Architectural Competition)

CHELMSFORD - A meeting of the governors of Chelmsford Grammar School was held on Wednesday week to finally decide on plans for the new building. Of the 13 plans which had been sent in in competition four had been selected for further consideration. These bore the mottos of " Salus," "Lux," "Straight and True," and " E. K." The governors now examined these four sets again, with the result that those of " Salus " and " Lux " were decided against, the first on account of the probable expense, and the second because they were not liked sufficiently. A vote was taken on the remaining two sets, when, by eight to one, those endorsed "Straight and True" were adopted. The successful architect is Mr. H. A. Cheers, of Twickenham, who guaranteed that the work could he carried out and completed for £4,000. "E. R.," who held the second position, is Mr. F. Whitmore, of Chelmsford. The adopted plans place the school buildings in the centre of the north side of the site, with trades', boys', and principal entrances from the West Market - road. The class-rooms, with schoolroom over, are on the west side of the block. The laboratory, 24ft. by 18ft., is detached by an open porch, and is partly lighted from the top. Adjoining are the latrines. A principal entrance hall, for boarders and visitors, is provided. The boarders' dining-hall has a service-room and pantry, and there is a master's house. The architect has provided for a detached building containing a laundry, washhouse, and drying-room, and a sick-room and room for nurse adjoining, on a southern aspect. The design is Tudor in character, the suggested materials being red brickwork and stone. [Building News 8 November 1889 page 648]

Reference           Building News 8 November 1889 page 648