Leeds social club could be turned into a school under new plans

A former social club in Leeds could be turned into a school for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Plans have been submitted to turn West Leeds Sports and Social Club in Armley into a residential facility with space for 20 children. A group, Youth Hubz, which provides services for SEND children submitted the application.

According to the planning report, they said: “We operate five Ofsted registered homes, each designed to provide a safe, structured and supportive environment for these young people.”

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The current site on Redshaw Road has been closed since 2019 and has since been the victim of both vandalism and fliers. Planning permission was previously granted in February 2023 to convert the site into flats and offices.

According to the design statement for the new school, it would help meet the needs of children who have emotionally challenging behaviors and would work in partnership with Leeds City Council. It added: “The scheme provides the necessary internal facilities for educational and care purposes as well as external recreation space suitable for a small school of this nature.”

On the ground floor there would be five classrooms, each dedicated to serving four children. There would also be a dining area, office and gym.

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Meanwhile, the top two floors would have en-suite children’s bedrooms, medical rooms and recreation areas. However, the report stated that the building is currently in a state of disrepair and the roof is currently collapsing.

It said: “The existing building is in a poor condition as a result of occupation by previous tenants and has been vacant for some time. The proposed scheme has been carefully designed to be in harmony with the existing layout of the building whilst incorporating newer additions which enable the scheme. to work.”

This proposal was supported by the West Leeds Amateur Rugby League (ARLFC) Football Club, which is based on the site. When responding to a public consultation, they said: “At West Leeds ARLFC we are at the heart of the community and bring many families to our Rugby League community club.

“This proposed project could improve our own club as we have aspirations to run some sports programs for people with disabilities.”