Consent secured for larger and more modern special school

Plans to build a special school in Deighton, Huddersfield, have taken a step forward.

The proposals – in a partnership between Kirklees Council and Wellspring Academy Trust – will see Joseph Norton Academy rebuilt and relocated, creating a new learning environment for pupils with social, emotional and mental health difficulties.

The Joseph Norton Academy is currently based in Scissett. However, the buildings are dated with limited possibilities for expansion.

Planning permission has now been granted for the new build to go ahead. It will create a total of 132 places in a more central location that better suits the needs of children and young people.

The development will be able to accommodate more students aged between 4 and 18. The site is on land that was formerly home to the Deighton Centre.

A contractor will be appointed to carry out the construction work.

Tom Brailsford, Strategic Director for Children’s Services at Kirklees Council, said: “This is another great example of how we support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to achieve their best possible.

“We are ambitious for all our children, especially those who need extra help, and the new school will be a fantastic addition to our local education offer.

“Joseph Norton Academy meets a wide range of needs and will have better facilities, more space, a more suitable location and approximately double the current number of places.

“Nationally, there is a growing demand for the provision of specialist schools. We are investing in our children and families, not only to provide what is needed, but to improve lives for many years to come.”

David Shepherd, strategic director for growth and regeneration, said: “We have worked closely with Joseph Norton Academy and Wellspring Academy Trust to design high quality facilities, both indoors and outdoors.

“The new school will help students reach their potential in an environment specially tailored to support them.”

A spokesman for Wellspring Academy Trust added: “We are delighted to hear that planning permission has been granted. This is an important step forward for our students.

“We look forward to working with the local authority to progress construction and ensure a fantastic new learning environment for future generations.”