School bid rejected by planners

Applicants had proposed turning the commercial building on Well Lane into a small school

Plans to build a new school in Wolverhampton to cater for children at risk of exclusion has been refused by planners.

Pathfinder Education, based in the city, had proposed converting a commercial premises at The Gatehouse on Well Lane.

In its application, the organisation said it would provide full-time and part-time education for a maximum of 15 children aged 11–16.

City of Wolverhampton Council refused the scheme this week, citing parking and highways concerns, adding that the plans were "very different... in character to the previous use".

Those behind the bid had previously said there was "significant demand" for specialist places for pupils at risk of exclusion, who often felt detached from mainstream education.

"The aim is to deliver a supportive, structured and inclusive learning environment where young people can re-engage with education and develop both academically and personally," director Stu Evans had said in supporting documents.

The application had also claimed nearby communities would benefit from reduced anti-social behaviour, and that the small scale of the provision would not result in adverse impact on traffic or noise.

However, in its determination, the council said there were only four dedicated off-street parking spaces for staff and visitors and "no dedicated space for dropping off and picking up children, making the proposal unsafe".

It also said there were road and pedestrian safety concerns.