Plans submitted for new 125-place special school

HOW IT COULD LOOK: An image of the proposed Willowfield special school

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Plans have been submitted for a long-awaited new specialist school in Hull to cater for 125 pupils with severe physical and or learning difficulties, while also creating up to 100 full‑time equivalent jobs.

Willowfield SEND Free School is proposed for land east of the existing Frederick Holmes School in Inglemire Lane.

Hull City Council said Willowfield’s low‑carbon design would include a mixture of classrooms, specialist teaching and therapy spaces, and a hydrotherapy pool.

It would also feature new dedicated vehicle and pedestrian access from Inglemire Lane, and new parking provision to include accessible spaces, electric vehicle charging and a minibus drop‑off area within the site.

The site would have new hard and soft play areas and landscaping.

Both Frederick Holmes School and Platform Daycare Centre would remain open throughout the construction phase.

Subject to planning approval, Willowfield will be delivered by the council in partnership with Hull Esteem LEP, with funding from the Department for Education.

Although the council and government agreed a new special school was needed in Hull six years ago, funding was not approved until spring 2025.

The council said the proposed development reflects the “strong collaborative partnership” between it and Humber Education Trust.

Councillor Linda Tock, the council’s portfolio holder for children’s services at the council, said: “Every child in Hull is entitled to an education in an environment that enables them to maximise their learning.

“This is an exciting project that would go some way to providing much‑needed additional SEND provision in the city.

“It demonstrates the commitment both the council and Humber Education Trust have to driving forward inclusive practice and widening opportunities for children and young people with the most complex needs.”