PLANS to replace Wirral’s highly-rated special schools with new multi-million pound facilities have been revealed.
The proposals – which are subject to final approval by the ruling cabinet next week – would see a £30m school building programme put in place over the next five years.
Part of the proposals are to develop a new secondary school – co-located with a mainstream school – and the trailblazing plan for a 16-19 education facility located at Wirral Met College’s proposed new campus.
Cabinet member Phil Davies said it was a unique opportunity and “given the current economic climate” the financial conditions which will allow it are unlikely to recur in the near future.
The plans could see Wirral’s three primary schools for children with special needs – Elleray Park, Stanley and The Lyndale – replaced by two new schools – also located on sites with mainstream schools.
However, following consultation with parents, staff and others, The Lyndale school, in Eastham, may yet become an all-through school for pupils aged two to 19.
All Wirral’s special schools are considered by Ofsted to be either excellent or good with outstanding features.
Cllr Davies said: “They are all high-achieving schools.
“However, the fabric of the buildings could be better – one, Stanley school, is not even wheelchair accessible.”