(UK) Leeds: Council considering plans for school for teens with "complex special ed needs"

Aug 8, 2026 Yorks Evening Post: Historic former Leeds school could reopen as specialist education centre

A historic former school in Leeds could be brought back into use for education if plans are agreed with the council.

Part of the Shine building on Harehills Road was proposed to be re-used as a special needs school.

Leeds City Council approved a planning application for a change of use of part of the ground floor. . . .

The new school will be operated by East Leeds Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (SILC).

The organisation teaches 14-19 year-olds with complex special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

A council planning report said: “The proposed change of use would introduce a state-funded SEND school within a limited area of the ground floor of the Shine building, which itself was originally a school.” . . .

The project would enable the SILC to expand its provision for vulnerable youngsters in the city.

The report said: “The proposal represents a sustainable form of development, re-using existing units within the Shine building for an appropriate community purpose.”