Schools will shut to make way for site

Two special schools in Kidderminster are to close to make way for a new community school.

Plans to close Blakebrook School at Bewdley Road, and Stourminster School at Comberton Road, have been given the go-ahead on condition that planning permission for the new school building is granted by the end of next year.

The plans were approved by the Office of the Schools Adjudicator Dr Elizabeth Passmore.

The decision means the two existing schools will close from August 31, 2011, with the creation of new community special school operating on the two sites from September 1 the same year until a new building is constructed.

Councillor Liz Eyre, the council's cabinet member for Children and Young People, said: "I am delighted the Schools Adjudicator has supported our direction of travel.

"We are on the verge of an exciting new vision for a new community special school which will enhance provision in the Wyre Forest district for this vulnerable group of young people.

Systems

"This decision fits well with our Building Schools for the Future timetable which will see other new schools built in the Wyre Forest district so it is all systems go now as we move on to the planning stage."

The new community special school will initially open in the existing school buildings and move into newly-constructed premises in 2013. It will be a community school with 180 places for pupils aged between two and 19.

Councillors agreed to carry out a review of special educational needs in Worcestershire in July 2004.

The existing policy was to retain special schools in all areas of Worcestershire while continuing to develop mainstream options.

Two years ago members agreed consultations about the possibility of two new special schools but in April last year it was decided more talks were needed.

In February this year councillors said consultations later carried out had showed people supported the proposals.