Senior Councillors are set to take the next step in expanding and modernising Broomfield South SILC (Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre) in Belle Isle when the Executive board meets next week (18 September 2024).
The plans would see the main building, which dates from the 1970s, replaced and an extra 100 places created. The report to councillors states that:
“This would address the longstanding and ongoing poor condition and suitability issues of the main building and support the growing need for specialist places for children with Education Health and Care Plans.”
Plans are at an early stage but involve the new building being built on adjacent green space land off Nesfield View, so the current building can continue to be used during the works. The cost of the project is estimated at £26 million.
Plans to move over 16s provision to a satellite building at White Rose Park are further advanced. The planning application for the change of use of the building at White Rose Park has been approved and it is planned to open in September 2025. Student numbers are expected to increase to 80 over three years.
The background to the redevelopment is a rising demand for places for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), particular in the south of Leeds.
The plans are supported by the Broomfield’s governors and leadership team and local ward councillors. A consultation amongst parents and other stakeholders was overwhelmingly in favour of the proposals with 81 of 91 responses backing the plans.
As well as statutory consultation the plans will be subject to planning approval in the normal way.
You can read the full report here.
Photo: Google Streetview
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