Plans for a new multi million pound state of the art special school in Dudley have been submitted.

The plans could see Dudley Council build a £12 million special school on the site of the former Pensnett High School to provide education for 115 children and young people aged three to 19 years.

It could replace the existing Pens Meadow Special School which already provides education for pupils with complex needs, including autism and pupils with profound and multiple learning difficulties across two sites.

Plans for the new school include an onsite nursery and an assisted living block to support young people with independent living and full catering facilities. The new school would also provide state of the art equipment, therapy rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, changing facilities, outdoor teaching and play areas, community group facilities, and 14 bespoke classrooms specifically designed to cater to children with additional needs.

The new school has been designed by the council’s project design and delivery team within corporate landlord services. Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said:

"These are exciting and ambitious plans to build a school that will provide the best facilities for pupils in every stage of their education and development.

"To get the planning process underway is another important step in this project as we continue to have positive dialogue with potential investors. The new build would allow the school to operate from one location and would incorporate the latest advances in technology and research to support staff and help children and young people reach their full potential.

"Pens Meadow has done an excellent job in supporting pupils and their families for many years but we hope the new school building and its state of the art facilities would allow us to open up new opportunities and extend the learning and life experiences of all children and young people who attend.

"Although we are still in the early stages of this development, we strongly believe the new school is in the best interests of pupils and staff and are excited about the potential it brings."