Rhondda green lights special school plans

Rhondda’s cabinet has agreed to implement proposals to build a new special school by 2026.The council said all options to expand the existing schools of Maesgwyn Special School, Park Lane Special School, Ysgol Hen Felin and Ysgol Ty Coch had been undertaken.It said the only feasible alternative to increase capacity, and to ensure the council can deliver on its obligations, is to create a new school.A report to cabinet outlined that no objections or comments were received during the statutory notice period. Members therefore agreed with officer recommendations to approve the proposal.Previously, the council has received a funding agreement in principle to jointly deliver the scheme with Welsh Government, with a 75 per cent contribution towards total project costs via the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme.Cllr Rhys Lewis, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s cabinet member for education, youth participation and the Welsh Language, said: “I’m very pleased that cabinet has agreed the proposed new special school for Rhondda Cynon Taf, to help the council meet its statutory duty to pupils with additional learning needs. This approval is subject to securing funding for the project, for which there is an agreement in principle with Welsh Government.”He added: “Wednesday’s decision by cabinet has now concluded the council’s decision-making process on this matter. Officers will further progress the project, and will provide updates to residents across all significant future landmarks towards the delivery of the county borough’s new special school in 2026.”