(UK) Lancs: New autism school, 55 students/55 staff

April 24, 2026, Lancashire Evening Post: Verdict in on 'much needed' school for up to 55 children with autism in Much Hoole

A decision has been made on plans for a specialist school for children with autism.

Planning bosses have given their verdict on plans for a new specialist school for up to 55 children with autism.

In December, the Post revealed that Aspris Children’s Services Ltd had applied to change the use of a vacant office in Brook Lane, Much Hoole - formerly occupied by Barron Wood Distribution Ltd - to a specialist day school with external works including the erection of play equipment and fencing, and minor alterations to the elevations of the two-storey building.

They said the school - for pupils between the ages of four and 16 - was “much needed” and it would “create a highly structured, low-arousal environment where young people with autism will flourish both academically and emotionally.”

Owing to the nature of the proposed school there would be a high staff to pupil ratio, with it being anticipated that the school would employ up to 55 members of staff.

The proposal attracted four letters of objection, with concerns related to highway safety, noise, light pollution, boundary fencing and the potential for vermin attracted by food.

No objections were made by statutory consultees, and South Ribble planning officers decided to approve the plans, with conditions. They said: “The proposed development would not have a materially greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt. The proposed development is not considered to be out of character with the area and will not adversely affect the amenities of nearby residential properties. There will be no significant highway safety or amenity implications as a result of the development.”