Plans revealed for new SEND school in resort

A new school for up to 30 pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) could be opened in Blackpool if plans are approved.

The proposals have been put forward by Rosscon Training Ltd, an independent vocational training provider and educational institution based in Blackpool.

A planning application has been lodged with Blackpool Council for use of premises at 216 Whitegate Drive as a SEND school for up to 30 pupils.

Rosscon Training Ltd seeks to regularise the use of the building for this purpose, meaning that it is seeking official, legal permission or legal recognition for how the property is currently being used.

In a supporting statement, the applicants said: “Although the premises is recorded as offices, inspection and investigation indicates it has recently supported young people and families with disabilities.

“The building is already highly suited to the proposed use: nursery-style rainbow décor, a secure playground with swings and sandpit, wheelchair ramps at front and rear, disabled toilets and showers, and a lift enabling access to upper areas for children with disabilities.

“The site is safeguarding-ready with secure gates, off-road parking, and a drive-through transport route (enter one gate, exit the other) supporting safe SEND drop-off/collection.”

The statement says the school will support children who are already showing early indicators of disengagement (attendance issues, heightened anxiety, behaviour dysregulation, unmet communication/sensory needs) and who, without early intervention, risk becoming future NEET (not in education, employment or training).

It adds: “Blackpool has a significant level of SEMH ( Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) demand, with local reporting indicating over 1,200 children and young people (0–25) with an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan).

“Alongside this, local NEET indicators are higher than many comparator areas, with Blackpool reported around 7.6% NEET for 16–17 year olds in the cited period).

“These pressures demonstrate the importance of early specialist primary provision so children do not progress into persistent absence, exclusion, crisis placements and reduced life chances.

“This proposal is designed to deliver a direct benefit to the town and local authority through early prevention, before wider social impacts are considered.

“Where SEMH needs are unmet, the risk of long-term unemployment, poor mental health, family breakdown and vulnerability to exploitation increases, and a minority may drift into anti-social behaviour or criminality.

“A structured SEMH primary setting reduces these risks by stabilising education early, improving outcomes and reducing future pressure on education.

“Rosscon Training Ltd is already an established educational setting supporting many young people with severe and complex needs.

“We now want to support Blackpool Council further by extending this expertise into primary SEND, ensuring children receive the right provision before disengagement becomes entrenched.”