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ET Planning successfully secured planning permission for a specialist education facility in Theale

CommercialBerkshire West Berkshire Council

The Challenge

There is a growing local and national need for specialist education provision to support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). In line with the Government’s SEND strategy, there is increasing pressure on local authorities to expand high-quality alternative education places for pupils with complex needs who are unable to thrive in mainstream settings. The proposed development on Station Road, Theale needed to demonstrate a clear educational need while also addressing key planning considerations, including traffic impact, design and heritage, and the sensitive adaptation of a rural building. Ensuring the scheme delivered community benefit while complying with both national and local planning policy was central to the challenge.

Our Approach

ET Planning successfully secured planning permission for a specialist education facility on Station Road, Theale on behalf of Amegreen. The permission, granted by West Berkshire Council, allows for a SEND school with dedicated education provision and an on-site residential flat for staff or pupils. The scheme also includes parking and secure outdoor areas, enhancing accessibility and safety for pupils and staff. The approval was achieved through careful preparation and proactive engagement with local planning policy. ET Planning worked closely with the applicant and West Berkshire Council planning officers to address all relevant issues, ensuring the proposal complied with policy requirements while optimising the benefits of the scheme for the wider community. Following the grant of permission, Haywards Farm School has opened and is now operating as a specialist education provider for pupils aged approximately 6–14. The school supports children with autism and other complex needs, helping to fill a significant gap in local SEND education provision.

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