A six-figure project to transform a former council office block in Blackpool into a 4,000 sq ft facility for youngsters with Special Educational Needs (SEN) is underway.
Designed by architectural and planning practice, Cassidy + Ashton, the 18-week project, delivered by Eric Wright Special Projects, part of the Eric Wright Group, includes part demolition and remodelling of the three-storey Westbury Lodge building.
The works, commissioned by Blackpool Council as part of the Local Education Partnership, will provide much-needed accommodation for nearby SEN providers, Park Community Academy and Woodlands Special School and the project is due to complete in April 2016.
Westbury Lodge will accommodate up to 50 young people aged between 16 and 19 and include specialist facilities designed for profound complex learning difficulties and education needs, such as severe autism and other rare syndromes.
The building had previously been a children’s home before being converted into office space and had remained empty until work began at the end of last year.
This unique project stems from a shared vision to achieve outstanding outcomes for all youngsters, helping to overcome learning barriers and build better life chances.
Alistair Baines, chairman at Cassidy + Ashton, said: “We’ve undertaken a number of SEN projects and are always proud to work on schemes of this type. The key to good design is creating a flexible and safe environment that facilitates outstanding learning opportunities, which build confidence and self esteem.”
Stephen Knowles, head of Eric Wright Special Projects, added: “Works of this nature require exceptional attention to detail and our extensive experience in education ensures that we’re able to meet the diverse needs of all those involved.
“The project will also mean that we’re a step closer towards achieving the Government’s aim in making England the best place in the world to grow up by 2020.”
Cllr Graham Cain, cabinet secretary for Blackpool Council, said: “The work taking place at Westbury Lodge not allows us to re-use an old building that had been standing dormant but it will also increase the capacity for young people with special educational needs to continue education after they’ve left secondary education.
“As the Government’s cuts really begin to bite hard, we need to make sure that every asset we own is contributing positively to the town’s future and I’m convinced that the solution for Westbury Lodge will do exactly that.
“Coupled with the brand new school at Highfurlong this will be another feather in the cap of our excellent special school provision in Blackpool.
“The increase will be a big benefit to both Park and Woodlands Schools and will really benefit dozens more local children every year, allowing them to continue their education and go on to do their best in life.”
The work is being carried out as part of the Blackpool Local Education Partnership, which is made up of Blackpool Council and Eric Wright Group. The partnership looks strategically at education services across Blackpool and delivering improved education facilities for pupils by using local suppliers and contractors.