Purpose

This report relates to the residential element of Bleasdale School, Silverdale, which is an all through school for pupils with profound and multiple learning difficulties in the north of Lancashire.

On 6 October 2022, Cabinet gave approval for feasibility studies to be undertaken on four possible options with respect to the future use of the residential site of Bleasdale School, in an effort to try and avoid the under-utilisation of the facilities available and to optimise the efficient use of public funds.

One of the four options presented to Cabinet in October was to maintain the Bleasdale School provision in its existing form, including boarding provision. The situation changed in October 2022 and there are now no pupils in the residential facilities at Bleasdale School. It is not anticipated there will be any demand for residential provision at this site in the future. Cabinet is therefore asked to give consideration to closing the residential provision at this school, while the feasibility studies into the other three options are completed. It is anticipated there will be no change to the day school provision at Bleasdale School.

Decision

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.