Warrington Peace Centre to get SEND extension

Plans designed by Ellis Williams Architects indicate the introduction of 10 classrooms, multi-purpose spaces, and ancillary spaces to transform the Peace Centre building into a post-16 and post-19 SEND facility.

A ground floor extension would host two classrooms for the post-19 provision, bringing the gross internal area to 34,000 sq ft.

The four-acre site off Peace Drive would also see an all-weather walking track, a horticultural learning area, and a playground installed.

Shared facilities, including a kitchen, a multi-sensory space, and meeting rooms will also be introduced to the site.

Car parking will be provided for up to 146 vehicles.

The current occupant, the Tim Parry Johnathon Ball Peace Foundation, would remain in the building using the office space and additional use only for occasional activities.

Last week, councillors voted unanimously in favour of approval with conditions.

It was decided that the local need for SEND provision outweighs the plan’s loss of open space.

The project’s team includes Curtins as the structural engineer, Ridge & Partners as the mechanical and electrical engineer, Tyrer Ecological Consultants, and principal design manager Keelagher Okey Klein.

To view this application, use the reference 2024/01109/FULM on Warrington Council’s planning portal.