Worthing special school site costs rise to £12.8m
The cost of delivering a satellite site for a Worthing special school has increased from £9.9million to £12.8million.
An increase in demand for places saw Oak Grove College, in The Boulevard, Durrington, expanded in 2022, but more space was still needed.
West Sussex County Council turned to The Pines – a former centre for adults with learning disabilities – to provide another 60 places, taking the total provision to 338.
A budget of £9.9million was approved but work to prepare the building has proved more costly than expected. On Tuesday, November 10, Sam Raby, cabinet member for children, young people and learning, approved another £2.89million, taking the total to £12.8million.
A report from council service directors stated: “The additional cost identified is due to the need for a full roof replacement, building fabric repairs, drainage, fire compliance, replacement mechanical and electrical services, safeguarding measures and SEND-specific adaptations to make the building suitable for being satellite provision for a special school.”
The report added the situation had been ‘exacerbated by recent vandalism’.
The Pines was declared surplus to requirements in November, 2022. The improvement work will include remodelling to provide classrooms, group rooms, a calming room, a sensory room, WCs, large spaces for dining and PE, and an external play area. A music block will also be built on the Oak Grove site.
The Pines is expected to open for pupils in the 2028/29 academic year.