SUPPORTERS of a Special School in Colehill have spoken of their relief that vital improvements are underway.

Beaucroft Foundation School, in Wimborne Road, desperately wanted to extend a small classroom to give their 150 pupils more space to learn, so when East Dorset District Council approved the plans last week, work started straight away.

RWN Architects Limited hope the extra 30 square metre build, costing around £30,000, will be ready for September.

Councillor Marilyn Osner said: “This does not mean an increase in pupil numbers, but simply improves the accommodation for the senior class for those children with autism.

“As they grow older they need more space.”

Earlier this year, the school’s outstanding Ofsted report highlighted the need for expansion. Three post-16 students study in a converted caretaker’s bungalow.

Neighbours had voiced concerns to the council about the issue of parents parking in Wimborne Road, exacerbated by traffic from the nearby St Michael’s School.

A resident, Michael Gray, wrote: “The congestion caused by the parking is of much concern to me and presents considerable chaos and danger.

“This will undoubtedly increase the number of cars and will further add to the inconvenience that already exists.”

Councillor Don Wallace, for Colehill East ward, said parking was an ongoing problem, but that the planning committee felt improving educational facilities was a priority.

“The extra parking is a snag,” he said. “The road and lay by are usually full, but I don’t know what can be done about that.

“I understand the worries of objectors, and I feel for them.

“But Beaucroft does a good job, has had some outstanding successes, and deserves our support.”