Bath & North East Somerset Council has launched a consultation on proposals to open a new special school and two children’s homes in Keynsham, aiming to improve local support for children with complex needs and their families.
Charlton House in Keynsham
The plans would see the vacant Charlton House repurposed into a 30-place specialist school, alongside two residential homes for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Each home would accommodate four children and include living spaces, staff areas and gardens.
Demand for specialist education and residential placements has risen significantly, with many children who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) currently placed outside of the area.
These out-of-county placements often come at considerable cost and mean children are not always supported close to home. The council also lacks local residential provision for its most vulnerable SEND children.
The proposal includes creating modern learning and social environments, sensory spaces and landscaped outdoor areas to support pupils’ needs.
Councillor Paul May, B&NES Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said the rising need for SEND support underlines the importance of developing local provision.
He said: “Supporting these children, young people and families is at the heart of everything we do.
“Providing local specialist places would not only reduce long journeys for families but, in the longer term, help manage costs.
He added that discussions are taking place with nearby residents and encouraged the community to view the plans and share their views.
The consultation runs until Friday 19 December. Residents can respond online or attend an event at Charlton House Community Room on Friday 12th December between 12pm and 7pm.
Feedback will help shape the final plans before they are submitted for planning approval.
