Bolton residents are being asked to have their say on plans to build an expanded special school on council land to provide much needed places for local children.
Proposals put forward by Bolton Council would see Firwood Special School expand their secondary and sixth form offer on land adjacent to the new Jubilee Centre.
The move would create 100 extra special school places at a time when high demand means the council is often reliant on costly independent places outside the borough.
Firwood School will soon reach its operating capacity despite recent significant expansions at its existing site on Stitch Mi Lane.
The Jubilee Centre on Crompton Way, which officially opened last year, is managed by the Bolton Cares Group and provides community-based services for adults with learning disabilities.
The proposed facility would be delivered by the Woodbridge Trust on behalf of the academy school, in partnership with the council and Bolton Cares, to ensure the plans work for everyone and that any disruption is minimised.
An initial consultation, which focuses on the proposed change of land use, can be completed on the council website.
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Martin Donaghy, said:
“Like many areas, Bolton is seeing an increase in demand for special school places and a lack of capacity leaves us reliant on placements outside the borough.
“Not only does this mean additional costs for council tax payers, but it means pupils are being educated outside of their community away from their friends and family.
“This move would allow more children to attend school here in Bolton in a purpose-built facility that is equipped to meet their needs.
“As this is council land, which we manage on behalf of all Bolton residents, it is important that as many people as possible take part in this consultation.”
The public will be consulted further during any future building design and planning processes.