Plan to convert empty offices in Newbury into specialist school
Plans to turn a vacant office building on Newbury Business Park into a school for children with special needs have been submitted to the council.
The applicants also want to turn the car park of River View House into a playground.
The school would be for around 50 pupils aged 11 – 19 with complex learning needs.
The children may have a range of needs including emotional and mental health issues.
The applicant, Hillcrest Children’s Services, says the school will offer specialist learning opportunities which do not exist at other schools in the area and employ up to 37 people.
River View House has been empty since May 2020, with estate agents reporting no interest, and a drop in numbers of companies needing office space.