Inaura School, a special needs institution located near the former Somerset shopping centre in Street, has received approval to expand its facilities. Since late 2023, the school has operated one of its four sites at 12 Leigh Road, having obtained permission earlier that year to convert the current office space into educational use.
The school, whose main campus is in Burrowbridge, submitted plans in September to extend into the adjacent property at 12a Leigh Road, positioned behind the soon-to-be-demolished Crispin Shopping Centre. This nearby shopping precinct will be replaced with a retirement development comprising 45 extra care apartments and 11 cottages.
Somerset Council, which took over planning responsibilities from Mendip District Council in April 2023, has now approved the expansion. The new accommodation is expected to be operational by spring or summer 2026.
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Both buildings, 12 and 12a Leigh Road, were originally part of Strode School, established by Clarks in 1925 to mark its centenary through philanthropic efforts. The 12a property is conveniently located close to Vestry Road, near the Churchill Retirement Ltd.’s upcoming retirement complex access.
Inaura School operates as a not-for-profit charity, providing education to pupils placed under Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). These plans coordinate input from parents, the council, and the school to meet each student’s needs. The expansion will enable the school to accommodate four additional pupils and hire four more teachers, maintaining its focus on intensive one-on-one support.
A school spokesperson expressed confidence in the project: “There are no adverse impacts associated with this proposal; rather, it represents a significant benefit to our community by providing much-needed specialised education. Given our broad catchment area and the unique requirements of our students, it is essential to be situated in accessible, appropriate premises. We are proud to have secured this additional building to better serve our students.”
The planning approval was granted through delegated powers by council officers, not requiring a public committee decision. The extended facility is anticipated to welcome students within the first half of 2026.