Plans for new special needs school in Stratford St Mary

Outcomes First Group has put forward plans to Babergh District Council to open a facility in School Lane in Stratford St Mary, on the Suffolk and Essex border.

The proposals would see a former school, used as offices until the end of the December 2023, converted to cater for the increased demand for places at special needs schools.

A covering letter said Suffolk County Council saw a 15pc increase in the number of Educational Health Care Plans (EHCPs) from January 2023 and January 2024. 

It added: "Suffolk is predicting a 23.7% increase in SEND by 2025 compared to a 16.2% average increase across England. 

Approximately 72 places would be created (Image: Google Maps)

"Suffolk will need to generate at least 550 additional specialist places to accommodate that growing demand by 2025."

Although no major alterations to the current buildings on site are planned, it would be repurposed to its former use as a school. 

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A ramp would be provided to allow for access to the main entrance, while two windows could be removed from the second building. 

Fencing would be erected around the perimeter of the site to create a safe space for children to play in. 

Documents suggest the school will cater for approximately 72 children. 

It is believed 42 permanent and six temporary jobs will be created if given the go-ahead.

Staff would be on site between 8am and 5pm, while the school day would be between 9.30am and 2.30pm.

A marketing report from estate agents Savills, who advertised the building, said the largest number of enquiries for those looking to occupy the building came from the education sector. 

The covering letter adds: "There will also be additional spend in local services and facilities as a result of the change of use."