Clevedon School in Somerset may soon replace the two marquees that have served as classrooms for almost two years with a new temporary school block. This move comes as a response to structural safety issues caused by high alumina cement (HAC) discovered in the school’s original building, which forced the closure of the EFAC building.
On May 14, North Somerset Council’s planning committee will vote on whether to approve the construction of a 24-classroom, two-storey teaching block. While the new block is a temporary solution intended to be in use for four years until a permanent building is constructed, it promises significant improvements for students currently learning in tents.
Parents have expressed relief at the prospect of improved facilities. One parent commented, “This is desperately needed so that children don’t have to be educated in tents anymore. They are freezing in the winter, sweltering in the summer and not soundproof, so lessons are disrupted by noise.” Another supported this view by highlighting the negative impact on their children’s education due to poor temperature control and lack of soundproofing.
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Despite this support, the application has attracted 82 objections compared to only four supporting comments. The major point of contention lies in the loss of the school’s long jump pit and running track, vital facilities for student athletes and the local community. Parents of athletic children voiced disappointment, with one remarking, “With this facility gone, where do our children — the next Olympic athletes — train?”
The North Somerset Athletics Club (NSAC) had initially objected to the plans but agreed to withdraw their opposition under the condition that athletic facilities are reinstated promptly following construction. Planning officers recommend that this condition be included if the application is approved.
The Department for Education has funded and submitted the plan, stating the urgent need to replace the inadequate marquees installed in 2023 as an interim measure after the EFAC building closure. The proposed block will contain not only classrooms but also staff areas, group rooms, and toilets, addressing both educational and operational needs while meeting curriculum requirements.
North Somerset Council’s planning committee will convene at 2:30 pm on May 14 at the New Council Chamber in Weston-super-Mare Town Hall to decide on the application. This meeting will also include discussions on other local development projects, including plans for the Tropicana in Weston-super-Mare.