A new special school provision in the city is getting closer to completion, after initial scheduled works are on track.
The site, at the former Woodlands School, will rehouse a specialist provision that is currently being delivered by Woodfield School on two separate sites. Children from the primary and secondary will be brought together on one site and benefit from specially designed and much-needed additional space.
The demolition work began in November 2023, and it is expected to be finished by early March 2024. By the end of March 2024, the contractor appointed to carry out the next phase of the development will be named; with works starting on site soon after.
Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “It’s fantastic that our new school provision is moving forward in the right direction. Lots of hard work has gone into this new development already and although there is still lots to do, I am confident that this is going to be a wonderful transformation for our young people in the city.
“Our goal is for every child in Coventry to have the greatest education possible and we know this facility will help to offer this. I have no doubt that the new building will benefit the staff, parents, and students who use it. I’m excited to keep following the work’s development".
Many of the buildings on site will be refurbished, keeping the important historical design elements. Only those that are not fit for purpose and unsuitable for refurbishment have planning permission to be demolished, in order to make way for the provision of facilities that meet the needs of the pupils.
The on-site community sport provision and Powerleague are being supported to ensure that they can continue to operate fully for the duration of the redevelopment works.
It is hoped the new school will open by September 2025.