Historic former Leeds school could reopen as specialist education centre
The Grade II-listed building was previously Harehills Middle School
A historic former school in Leeds could be brought back into use for education if plans are agreed with the council.
Part of the Shine building on Harehills Road was proposed to be re-used as a special needs school.
Leeds City Council approved a planning application for a change of use of part of the ground floor.
The Grade II-listed building dates back to the 19th century and was previously Harehills Middle School.
The new school will be operated by East Leeds Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (SILC).
The organisation teaches 14-19 year-olds with complex special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
A council planning report said: “The proposed change of use would introduce a state-funded SEND school within a limited area of the ground floor of the Shine building, which itself was originally a school.”
The report said highways officers initially raised concerns over road safety during pick up and drop-off times.
But the council said traffic movements would happen over short periods of the day and a car park management plan had been drawn up.
A design report by the applicant said: “East SILC operates with local authority managed transport arrangements, including dedicated SEN transport services.
“This significantly limits reliance on private car travel and reduces impacts on local parking and highways.”
The project would enable the SILC to expand its provision for vulnerable youngsters in the city.
The report said: “The proposal represents a sustainable form of development, re-using existing units within the Shine building for an appropriate community purpose.”