Pupil referral unit to open in Wickford

Essex County Council is planning the unit for land off Alderney Gardens, in Wickford.

The site was previously home to Barn Hall School.

A pupil referral unit offers schooling for children who aren’t able to attend school and may not otherwise receive suitable education.

The proposals state there would be 25 primary and 75 secondary children places available at the unit.

A public consultation has begun today, April 16 and runs until April 30.

The proposals have been welcomed by community leaders.

Peter Holliman, Tory councillor for Wickford North, said: “We are having a presentation from the county council, today April 16, but at the moment it has my support.

“It’s good news for Wickford, as for a long time it’s felt like education, health and support needs for the town have been left in the background.

“I think it can only be good news, this will provide a lot of school places for lots of pupils and will help so many families and young people.

“I think it’s so important residents join the consultation and discussion for this plan. I urge as many people as possible to make their views known.”

David Harrison, Wickford Independents chairman of the neighbourhoods and public spaces committee also backs the plans.

He said: “It will be a good use for the site as it was a school and the facilities are there.

“I think it’s better to use this site for it than an empty piece of land and if this doesn’t go ahead it could easily become homes.”

The plans state: “This new facility will be delivered by the Children’s Support Service who manage other centres at Langdon Hills, Fairview and Hadleigh.

“It is envisaged works will start in the Autumn of 2020 with completion of the facility expected in December 2021.

“The design team has been working with the Children’s Support Service to develop a proposal that would meet educational needs.”

See www.consultations.essex.gov.uk/