Four classrooms could be added to Calne special school for 40 more pupils in Wiltshire
A special school could gain extra space to support more children with complex needs.
Four new classrooms could be added to The Springfields Academy in Calne under plans recommended for approval by Wiltshire Council’s Northern Area Planning Committee next week.
The temporary modular units would provide space for up to 40 additional pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), mainly autism and communication needs.
At a meeting of Wiltshire Council’s Northern Area Planning Committee in Chippenham on Wednesday, September 16, members will be told: “The proposal would provide much-needed additional specialist educational accommodation while making use of an existing school site.”
Located on Curzon Street, the academy is already at full capacity and has an ongoing waiting list for places dating back to 2020. The extra accommodation would help address the growing demand for SEND provision in the county until a permanent satellite site is developed, expected in 2027 or 2028.
The scheme is described as “part retrospective,” with the units already largely in place and being used. Each classroom would measure around 54 square metres, and the total internal floorspace of the buildings - including toilets and storage - would be 301 square metres.
The modular buildings are expected to remain on site for between two and five years while the permanent site is developed. They would be located on a grassed area between the existing car park and the Therapy Building, screened by mature hedgerows.
While the plans have been welcomed for addressing urgent educational needs, some residents have raised concerns about increased congestion, parking, and traffic. Issues highlighted include staff parking, parent drop-offs, and taxis affecting nearby Springfield Drive and Curzon Park.
Concerns have also been raised about lighting, noise, and the visual impact of the new buildings.
Despite these concerns, Wiltshire Council’s Highways team has raised no objections. The officer report estimates that only three to four additional vehicles would be generated, with transport continuing to be managed through the existing taxi and minibus system.
The report acknowledges ongoing issues with congestion and parking, but concludes these are linked to existing operations rather than the temporary classrooms.
To make space for the development, four Category B trees would be removed. The council’s arboriculture team has not objected, provided 11 native trees are planted as replacements within the school grounds.
Calne Town Council has not objected to the proposal, noting that any additional traffic must be carefully managed.
Planning officers have recommended approval, subject to conditions relating to drainage, ecology, landscaping, lighting, and operating hours.
School activities would be limited to 7am to 7pm, Monday to Friday, and external lighting would be restricted to minimise impact on neighbouring properties.