The construction of a new education facility in Barrow has taken a 'significant' step forward.

Westmorland and Furness Council is progressing with the £2.9 million project to build a 40-place Alternative Provision at Channelside, which will support children who benefit from alternative education provision.

This provision will work alongside other education providers to support young people whose needs can be met in this setting with guidance provided to access the curriculum.

Sue Sanderson, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills, said: “I’m so pleased to see work progressing on site in Barrow. 

"We’re entering an exciting time for education in Westmorland and Furness as we move forward with our strategy to offer inclusive, local provision where everyone has access to good quality education and is enabled to realise their full potential."

The development site is close to the A590 for those travelling into the town and will give a 'new lease of life' to a piece of land which has been vacant since 1985.

“Our aim is to provide an alternative curriculum and education experience for children and young people who find the mainstream environment challenging," Cllr Sanderson added.

“This will be an invaluable facility for those who need it and I’m really looking forward to seeing the next phase take shape.”

Lisa Balderstone, head teacher at South Cumbria Pupil Referral Service, of which the new provision will be a part of, explained that the scheme will 're-engage' students struggling in a mainstream setting.

She said: "This will be done through tailored learning from specialist staff, with smaller class sizes and a significant focus on a tailored approach to identify and meet needs.

"This new provision will bring more places for us to further support young people who need it, to enable them to transition to good post-16 opportunities.”

According to Councillor Peter Thornton, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for highways and assets, the site will prevent children having to travel further away to get the education they need.

The next stages will include foundations, drainage and external works ahead of the installation of the modular buildings, which will commence in the spring. 

Works are anticipated to be completed by winter 2024.