Witherslack to open new SEND school
A 20,000 sq ft former office building in Wythenshawe has been sold by Hurstwood Holdings, having secured planning permission to convert the site into a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school.
The property, which has been acquired by Witherslack Group, is situated on a self-contained 2.4-acre site within the Roundthorn Industrial Estate. It was previously home to Maginus Software but has been vacant since the company’s relocation in 2023.
Hurstwood recognised the demand for a SEND school as well as the buildings fundamentals lending itself to that use and speculatively applied for planning,
The planning application to change the building’s use was submitted in July of last year and granted within just six weeks. A deal for the purchase of the building was agreed with Witherslack during the planning process.
A calming environment for SEND learners
Located in a tranquil, private setting, the building benefits from a secure site with private access, generous green space, and ample car parking – all essential features for creating a safe and calming environment for students with sensory and developmental needs.
Sam Ashworth, project director at Hurstwood Holdings, said: “There is an urgent and growing need for SEND school places across Greater Manchester. Recognising this gap, we were proactive in securing planning permission to repurpose this former office building and provide much-needed space for a new SEND school. We’re delighted that Witherslack Group will take this vision forward, creating a supportive learning environment for local students.”
Broadgrove Planning Consultants advised Hurstwood Holdings on the planning application, with Williams Sillitoe and D1 Properties acting as the retained agents on the transaction.
Source: https://www.insidermedia.com/news/north-west/former-office-building-sold-for-send-school-development
