Warehouse could become new special needs school

A Hereford warehouse could be converted into a school for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

London-based Pathway Schools is seeking planning permission to change the use of Impact House in Coldnose Road, within the Rotherwas enterprise zone, into a facility for up to 25 pupils and 10 staff.

A statement sent with the application said Herefordshire had "a significant shortfall" of about 400 SEND places.

Pathway has been "in dialogue" with Herefordshire Council over the project, the statement added.

Built in the early 2000s, the unit is currently occupied by Wye Valley Manufacturing, which sells medical and funeral care supplies.

"The location and building lends itself for the proposed use, having goods access, parking and the building providing appropriate space," the application said, adding that a review of the Hereford property market found "limited availability" of suitable premises.

There would be no alterations to the building's exterior other than new signs, although new partitions would be installed inside.

As only two staff are currently based at the site, "the proposed change of use will result in a significant increase in employment numbers", with "peak traffic movements in the morning and mid-afternoon", the application said.

The site already has 18 parking spaces, while its entrance and surrounding roads are designed to accommodate heavy traffic.

The application said a travel plan would be agreed with the council.

Pathway Schools was incorporated as a business in September.

Comments on its application can be made until 15 January.

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.