Inaura School, a special needs educational institution near the former Somerset shopping centre in Street, has received approval to expand its facilities. Since late 2023, Inaura School has operated one of its four sites at 12 Leigh Road, having secured permission earlier that year from Mendip District Council to convert existing office space into a learning environment.
The school, which has its main campus in Burrowbridge, applied in September 2023 to extend into the neighboring property at 12a Leigh Road. This location sits just behind the Crispin Shopping Centre, which is set to be demolished to accommodate a new retirement complex developed by Churchill Retirement Ltd., featuring 45 extra care apartments and 11 retirement cottages.
Somerset Council, which replaced Mendip District Council in April 2023, has now granted approval for the expansion. The new facility at 12a Leigh Road is projected to open by spring or summer 2026.
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Both 12 and 12a Leigh Road were originally part of Strode School, established by the Clarks company in 1925 as part of a philanthropic initiative marking 100 years of trading.
Inaura School operates as a not-for-profit charity, enrolling pupils based on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) developed collaboratively with families, the council, and the school itself. Incorporating 12a Leigh Road will allow the school to accommodate an additional four pupils and hire four more teachers, strengthening its commitment to one-on-one, intensive support.
A spokesperson for Inaura School commented: “There are no adverse impacts stemming from this proposal. The benefits and necessity of specialised educational facilities like ours represent a significant contribution to society. Because of our school’s unique catchment area and specialised focus, it is essential to remain accessible and housed in suitable premises. We are proud to have secured this additional building to better serve our students' needs.”
The expansion plans were approved by the council’s planning officers under delegated powers, bypassing a public planning committee review. The extension is expected to be functional within the first half of 2026.