Wigan special schools key decision delayed

Council bosses were expected to approve the first phase of the plans, including a £10m school relocation, this week.

But a report tabled for Thursday’s cabinet meeting has now been deferred until next month, the town hall has said.

Hope School in Marus Bridge will be moved to Pemberton as part of the wider proposals, which are aimed at improving facilities for youngsters with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and in response to increasing demand across the borough.

Bosses have previously said the changes are ‘essential’ in response to rising demand across the borough and a public consultation was held earlier this year.

The reform programme is estimated to cost £34m, with £10m earmarked for the relocation of Hope School.

It is understood the deferral of the report to next month’s meeting is not because changes are proposed to the reform programme.

The scheduled meeting of the cabinet on Thursday has now been cancelled, the town hall said.

Further phases of the reform timetable, earmarked to take place within the next five years, could see Rowan Tree Primary in Leigh and Landgate School in Bryn either relocated or have new facilities built at their current locations.

Changes to Willow Grove Primary, Oakfield High and Newbridge Learning Community School are tabled for within the next five to 10 years.