Public consultation on specialist education centre in Theale

A CONSULTATION has opened on the proposed location of a specialist education centre in Theale.

West Berkshire Council said a suitable site has now been identified and it is seeking views on the development of the old Theale Primary School, in Church Street as the potential location.

The proposed facility would cater for young people with complex social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.

Up to 42 young people, aged 11 to 18, could be hosted there.

Dominic Boeck, the district council’s executive member for education, children and young people said: "I'm pleased that we are moving forward with plans for this very important provision.

"We feel that utilising the old Theale Primary School building will provide an excellent space for these young people to grow both emotionally and educationally.

"We look forward to hearing the views of local people on this potential location.

"We'll be holding a public webinar on May 12 at 5pm so that we can answer any questions that people may have."

An earlier consultation - held at the end of 2020 - attracted 86 submissions, with 84 of these positive.

The latest consultation went live on April 30, and is to run through to June 13.

To make a submission to the consultation, visit bit.ly/3vzR1sn

Advance registration is required for the webinar, and can be booked at bit.ly/3e7qyN4