Plans have been submitted to demolish the aging Priory Green council offices in Whitburn Close, Pendeford, Wolverhampton, to make way for a new, purpose-built special school. The proposed development would accommodate up to 120 pupils with special educational needs, significantly increasing capacity from Broadmeadow Special School’s current 75-place provision.
Central Learning Partnership Trust has applied to relocate Broadmeadow Special School from its existing site on Lansdowne Road near West Park to the newly available Priory Green site. The current school, which began as a 30-place nursery in Whitmore Reans in 1997, recently expanded using adjacent temporary classrooms and community space. However, the existing facilities are no longer fit for purpose and require major refurbishment, including a full roof replacement. Additionally, the current toilets are inadequate for the older pupils the school serves.
The new building will cater to children and young adults aged 4 to 19 years old, a broader age range than the current setup that only serves pupils up to 11. Importantly, the design and facilities will meet the specific needs of the students, providing a modern learning environment tailored to special educational requirements.
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While the council offices will be demolished, the neighbouring community centre and library will remain unaffected by the development. Part of the adjacent St Paul’s Primary School playing field is planned to be allocated for use as outdoor space for the new school.
The Priory Green offices, which currently house council safeguarding staff, were declared surplus last year as part of cost-saving measures and will be vacated soon. The site’s excellent public transport links influenced the decision, ensuring staff and families have convenient access to the new location.
A statement attached to the application highlights the school’s high staffing needs due to the pupils' special requirements, necessitating ample parking and a seamless drop-off and pick-up system. It notes that students generally arrive by minibuses or taxis, with drop-off logistics efficiently managed within the school day. The relocation aims to maintain this smooth operation while providing a much-needed upgrade to facilities.