Transformation of Historic Community Centre into SEND School

A well-known community centre in Hinckley is set to be converted into a school catering to up to 75 children with special educational needs (SEND). The site, previously Westfield Community Centre on Rosemary Way, was originally constructed as a school in the 1930s before becoming a central hub for the local community. Financial difficulties led to its sale last year.

Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Councils planning committee unanimously approved the change of use, noting that hundreds of children in Leicestershire are currently on waiting lists for specialist education places.

Dr Amy Hopkin, founder of the Hopedale Group, which operates six SEND schools in the Midlands and North East, praised the building as "historic" and highlighted that the plans would restore it to its original function.

She emphasized that due to a shortage of SEND provisions in the county, children often had to travel long distances from home. Council leader Stuart Bray expressed regret over the community centres closure but welcomed the modernization of the building, while also raising concerns about road safety for students.

Councillor Keith Lynch, who has been connected with the former centre for four decades, expressed strong support for the project, calling it "extremely happy" news and delighted that the building will have a renewed purpose. Dr Hopkin mentioned that a one-way traffic system would be implemented for safe pick-ups and drop-offs and stated that the project is not expected to negatively impact Rosemary Way.

Author: Ava Mitchell