North Yorkshire Council has confirmed that the planned opening date for a new school in Harrogate for children with autism has been pushed back until 2025.
North Yorkshire Council has confirmed that the planned opening date for a new school in Harrogate for children with autism has been pushed back until 2025.
The council’s Conservative-run executive approved the creation of the school last year which will be at the former Woodfield Community Primary School in Bilton.
It had pledged the new school would be open in time for the September 2024 term however in an update this morning, a council spokesperson said this will no longer be possible.
They did not give a reason for the delay but said the authority is committed to securing more special educational needs (SEN) provision in Harrogate.
Since 2016, the number of children in North Yorkshire with identified special educational needs and disability and a legally-binding education, health and care plan has increased by more than 110%, leading to a shortage of special school places and numerous children being taught by independent providers.
Independent day sector placements typically cost the public purse up to £70,000 annually and the average cost of a special school placement is about £23,000.
The results of a consultation revealed considerable support for the creation of the school in Harrogate with 86% of 105 responses in favour.
The council has pledged a £3.5m investment into creating the school.
North Yorkshire Council’s assistant director for education and skills, Amanda Newbold, said:
“We are committed to securing more special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision in North Yorkshire.
"The target opening date has been revised to next year.”
Cllr Paul Haslam (Independent, Bilton & Nidd Gorge) told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that he was monitoring developments at the new school.
Woodfield school, which closed in 2022, had large playing fields and Cllr Haslam is urging the council to make it available to the public once the new school is created.
He added:
“I’ve put in a proposal for dual access to sports grounds so it can be used by the local community.
"That would be a good use of space.”
Categories announced for Harrogate Dog Show 2026
BID businesses vote 'yes' for new five-year term for Ripon BID
Masked fundraising ball returns to Harrogate next weekend
From Harrogate to New York: Ladies College pupil secures Ivy League place
Harrogate Spring Flower Show shortlisted for national tourism award
New matcha and coffee shop opens in Harrogate
Mother Shipton's Cave launches 'world's creepiest' Labubu-style toys for charity
Knaresborough named among top 10 'most beautiful places' in UK
Full music programme revealed for Harrogate Food and Drink Festival
Court upholds council's decision on Harrogate Gateway scheme
Harrogate family take on Yorkshire Three Peaks to honour late mum
Ripon crowned Yorkshire's domestic tourism capital
Former Bed Restaurant owner reflects 10 years after closure
Harrogate Theatre pantomime nominated for national award
WATCH: Filming for All Creatures Great and Small takes place in Ripley
Harrogate MP blasts Mayor for failing to act on disabled bus pass restrictions
Local attractions to close as Met Office issues yellow weather warning for wind
Harrogate taekwondo master awarded MBE for long-standing contribution to sport
Harrogate dance group set for world record attempt
Gareth Southgate visits popular Harrogate pub
