Planning approval paves way for second phase of £2m development at Blackpool SEND school
Construction is set to begin on the £900k second phase of development work at a Blackpool school catering for children with a broad range of additional and complex learning needs.
The project, which has now been approved by Blackpool Council, involves a two-storey extension and refurbishment of the stables block at Park Community Academy, which is based on Whitegate Drive and is part of the Sea View Trust.
It is designed to provide improved educational facilities enabling the school to continue to deliver outstanding education to their pupils.
It follows a £1.2m new sports and performing arts hall which was completed in April 2025. Architecture, planning and building surveying practice, Cassidy + Ashton, has led the design of both phases of the £2.1m improvement works, in addition to planning and building surveying consultancy.
The school caters for 2–19-year-old pupils with a variety of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The 900 sq ft extension to The Stables building will be undertaken by Blackpool-based contractor Singleton and Smart and will create new classrooms and breakout spaces, an entrance area, ramp access as well as reconfiguring the existing playground to facilitate the improvements.
Dominic Read-Garrett, associate chartered architect, Cassidy + Ashton, said: “Cassidy + Ashton has led the design of dozens of educational projects across the UK over recent years for young people at all stages of their education.
“Developing schemes for pupils with additional needs brings unique challenges to ensure what we deliver is inclusive, accessible and ultimately enriches their learning environment. It also brings huge satisfaction to see pupils benefitting from surroundings which bring the best out of them.
“After seeing how the pupils at Park Community Academy are already benefitting from the new sports hall, it’s exciting this further extension can now begin on-site. It will not only improve their learning experience but also mean that further local pupils, currently travelling to other areas of the North West, can now receive their education closer to home.
Gill Hughes, headteacher, Park Community Academy said: “We are delighted to once again be working alongside Cassidy + Ashton and Blackpool Local Education Authority to redevelop areas of our school to ensure we can continue to effectively meet the needs of our pupils now and in the future.
“This building will enable us to continue to develop our curriculum and preparation for adulthood programme enabling our young people to become responsible citizens, successful learners and resilient individuals.”
Construction is expected to be complete by the 2026-27 academic year.
