A FORMER community centre which has stood vacant for three years following a vandalism incident three years ago will be converted to a school for children with special educational needs if Warrington plan ing chiefs give the go-ahead.
The scheme involves the former Hawthorne Community Centre in Orange Grove, Poulton-with-Fearnhead – a building which sits within its own grounds and has parking and amenity space. It would cater for 20 pupils.
Externally, the building would have enhanced accessibility features including car parking, ramping and level access where required, improved entrance arrangements with a secure reception area and widening of the internal access road to allow safe two-way vehicle movement.
There would be secure outdoor learning and play areas, a sensory garden and therapeutic outdoor spaces, two on-site drop-off and pick-up minibus parking bays, ensuring no waiting or queuing on the public highway.
Planners have been told the scheme will meet a need in the borough and reduce the need for sending children with special educational needs out of the borough.
The scheme is currently being considered by planning officers.
