Two new special schools agreed for Downham Market and Great Yarmouth

Norfolk County Council says it will continue with plans to build two new special schools in the county.

The new venues are proposed for Great Yarmouth and Downham Market.

The authority had the choice between this, and accepting an option to fund more places at existing special schools.

Cllr Penny Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Norfolk County Council, who signed the decision agreeing to the proposal, said: "I am so pleased that we can now proceed with these schools.

“There’s been a lot of hard work to get to this place, particularly from our officers, and I know that children and families will really welcome these extra specialist places in their communities.

“I am grateful to everyone that has given their views as part of this process and has supported our efforts to get the funding released by the government.

"The schools mean that more children with special educational needs will be able to learn near to their homes and that is at the heart of our strategy to improve learning for children with additional needs.

A case for the two schools was first made more than two years ago, but was put on hold when the government changed hands following 2024's General Election.

Estimated to cost around £40million, the venues will support more than 250 children with learning disabilities and complex learning needs.