Families in Penarth are set to benefit from a brand new £22 million school dedicated to pupils with Additional Learning Needs (ALNs).
Morgan Sindall Construction was appointed to the project by Vale of Glamorgan Council, after previous contractors ISG went into administration. Their Cardiff business is currently putting together a workplan before construction recommences.
Located on land near Cosmeston Country Park and named Ysgol Llyn Derw by students, this will be a second site to the acclaimed nearby Ysgol Y Deri, which was the subject of the BBC documentary, ‘A Special School’.
Using cutting-edge technology to offer bespoke education for pupils with a range of disabilities that vary in complexity.
Overwhelming demand for a second site has prompted the development, with Morgan Sindall planning to accommodate 150 pupils. The two-storey building will integrate with the surrounding landscape, functioning as an extension of the school facilities. These exterior spaces will offer both teaching and study spaces as well as areas for sport, play, socialising, relaxation, and reflection.
In line with Morgan Sindall’s commitment to sustainability, Ysgol Llyn Derw’s design incorporates solar panels and a hybrid generator to power the site, all built from energy efficient materials to contribute to a carbon neutral finish. The space will also feature natural light and ventilation wherever possible, with green roofs and a host of other environmentally friendly features integrated to enhance biodiversity.
Rob Williams, Area Director of Morgan Sindall Construction in Wales, said: “It’s a real pleasure to be working on Ysgol Llyn Derw such an important facility for the area. We can all see the demand for SEND schools rising, so it means a lot for the whole team to work on this specialised learning facility, supporting families and helping the next generation achieve their full potential.
“In collaboration with Vale of Glamorgan Council and Morgan Sindall, this project is set to create an environment that will inspire pupils and provide the support that they need.”
Councillor Lis Burnett, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: “Ysgol Llyn Derw will provide a much-needed tailor-made environment for pupils that need specialist attention and build on the fantastic work carried out at Ysgol Y Deri’s main site. Examples of just what a difference this can make to the lives of children was there for all to see in the BBC Documentary: A Special School.
“As well as helping pupils, we also want our schools to benefit the environment. That is in line with the Climate Emergency declared by the Council and our Project Zero commitment to become carbon neutral by 2030.
“Ysgol Llyn Derw has a host of impressive features that make it clean and green, alongside extensive provision for animal and plant life.
“We’re delighted that Morgan-Sindall has agreed to take on this project and look forward to working with them on its delivery.”
