Merger backed by both sides

Two special needs schools in Kidderminster could be closed and merged into a new multi-million building on a single site - with the headteachers of both schools warmly welcoming the plan.

Education chiefs want to close Blakebrook School and Stourminster School to form one unit on land alongside St John's Primary School and Baxter College.

After talks with parents, carers, staff, governors and health professionals, education bosses have decided one school, split into primary and secondary sections, would be better than two separate buildings.

The proposals are to be discussed by members of Worcestershire County Council's cabinet on April 26.

If the scheme goes ahead, Blakebrook and Stourminster would be closed from August 31, 2011 and the new school created as part of the campus development with St John's Primary School and Baxter College.

Blakebrook School headteacher Mick Russell said: "The proposal for one school makes more sense. One school could more appropriately meet the needs of the children."

Ian Hardicker, headteacher of Stourminster School, said: "We are very excited by the proposal."