Work begins on £24.5 million expansion of Luton special school
The new site will create up to 120 additional school places for children with special educational needs, with plans to open in autumn 2027.
Work is officially under way on a £24.5 million expansion of Woodlands Secondary School in Luton.
A groundbreaking ceremony took place on Monday 19 October at the new site in Kestrel Way, marking the start of construction.
The expansion will create up to 120 additional specialist school places, helping to meet growing demand across the town.
It will also mean some families in west Luton can access specialist education closer to home.
The new two-storey building will feature 14 classrooms, a hydrotherapy pool, a gym and a specialist kitchen.
Plans also include three playgrounds, outdoor teaching spaces and a car park with electric vehicle charging points.
Once the new site is fully operational, Woodlands Secondary School will be able to accommodate up to 385 pupils across its two locations.
Councillor Amjid Ali, Leader of Luton Council, said:
"Demand for specialist school places in the town has grown, and our existing provision is under increasing pressure.
"We're building on the success of a school that already has a strong track record, and this expansion means more young people will have the opportunity to benefit from the education and support the school provides."
Construction is being carried out by Morgan Sindall Construction, with the new site expected to open in autumn 2027.