Plans have gone in to create a new multiuse sports hall at a school for children with special needs.

Developers, AHR Building Consultancy Ltd applied to Rossendale Council last week for the proposed extension to Tor View School in Clod Lane, Haslingden.

Part of the plans include incorporating a new multiuse space providing sports facilities and a performance hall, an extension to the existing plantroom for the services of the new building, equipment store, landscaping works, and the erection of a steel shipping container within school grounds.

The transformation will also include space for three badminton courts, group physical activities and space for some trampolines.

A design and access statement reads: “The school’s vision was clear from the outset: to have a large open multi-use space with the capacity to accommodate three badminton courts, space for group physical activities and performances, and the inclusion of space for trampolines.

“The new proposed building aims to enhance the school’s existing facilities, particularly focusing on sports and physical education and performance.

“Given the school’s dedication to catering to students with a wide range of special educational needs, the new development will be crucial in providing tailored facilities that can accommodate and support these students.

“The primary feature of the new development will be a large multi-functional space.

“This space will be instrumental in promoting physical activity among students, offering them a venue for both structured physical education classes and recreational play and performance.

“Additionally, the school’s desire to incorporate trampolines into the space has been a significant influence on the design.

“Trampolining is not only a fun activity but also offers therapeutic benefits, especially for students with specific needs.

“The design will ensure that there’s ample vertical space to accommodate trampolining, keeping safety as a paramount concern.

“Future phases of the development will see the addition of toilet and changing facilities, further enhancing the usability of the space.

“The design also envisions a covered walkway, ensuring easy and weather-protected access between the main school building and the new building.

“In essence, each part of the development has been designed with the school’s unique student body in mind, ensuring that the facilities are not only state-of-the-art but also inclusive and tailored to the students’ needs.”

Tor View School is a dedicated institution for pupils with Special Educational Needs, catering to students aged three-26 with a range of learning challenges.

The current school hall is insufficient for the school’s needs. Modern educational guidelines recommend two separate halls: one for physical activities and movement, and another for dining, assemblies, and performances.

The new facility would support the school’s curriculum, including physical education, learning support, and therapies.

Additionally, it would offer space for drama activities, theatre, and dance groups.

The new hall will address the current lack of indoor sports facilities, benefiting all students and potentially serving the wider community, generating additional revenue for the school’s maintenance.

The design statement went on: “In summary, the design development for Tor View School’s sports hall has been a dynamic process, adapting to the school’s requirements and the available resources.

“The planning submission reflects a commitment to providing the best possible facilities for the students in the most efficient and timely manner.

“The future phase, which includes the addition of toilet and changing facilities, ensures that the multi-use space will be a comprehensive and state-of-the-art facility once fully completed.”