SEND school expansion begins after £18m contract award

SEND school expansion begins after £18m contract award

An artist's impression of the new build Hope School and College

Wigan Council has announced the appointment of a contractor to deliver a major expansion and relocation of Hope School and College.

An Ofsted-rated outstanding Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school in Wigan Borough, Hope School provides education and support for pupils with a wide range of learning difficulties and complex physical needs.

The appointment of Conlon Construction has led to works starting on site, with plans for the new facilities to open in time for the 2027/28 academic year.

Councillor Laura Flynn, portfolio holder for children and families, said: “This appointment is a significant milestone for Hope School and in our commitment to ensuring children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities have access to the high-quality learning environment they deserve.

“We are delighted to be moving this important project forward as it will not only improve classroom and sensory facilities but will also create additional specialist places and help meet growing demand for SEND provision across the borough.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the project become a reality as it will have a lasting positive impact on pupils, families and school staff for many years to come.”

With Hope School currently located at Kelvin Grove in Marus Bridge, the plans will see the educational facility relocated to the Hope College campus at Montrose Avenue in Norley Hall.

The ambitious expansion will deliver two new specialist teaching buildings at the new Hope School, with the larger building including 13 classrooms, a hydrotherapy pool, kitchen, rebound room, and reception offices.

A second building will provide 10 classrooms, a dining hall, and seven specialist resource rooms to be used for a variety of subjects. A third block will also be created from an existing building, converting this into the school’s administration facility and accommodation for pupils with the most complex needs.

External works will include new car parking and drop-off areas, playgrounds and landscaping.

The appointment of Conlon also brings a commitment to employing local workers and apprentices, as well as financial support to local SEND and family-support organisations.

Guy Parker, Chair and Managing Director of Conlon Construction, said: “Our experience delivering specialist education projects across the north west has been invaluable in shaping our approach to Hope School and College.

“We are proud to partner with Wigan Council on this landmark expansion, delivering not only exceptional facilities for pupils with complex needs, but also investing directly in the local community through regional supply chain spend, local jobs, and training opportunities.”