Plan to turn listed barn into special needs school

A 17th Century Grade II listed barn in Staffordshire could be turned into a specialist school for children with complex autism and learning disabilities under new plans.

The proposal would see the Seighford Hall Barn, near Stafford, converted into a primary school for up to 36 special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) pupils, aged between four and 11.

Planning documents said there was a growing need for specialist provision in the borough.

A revised planning application was submitted to Stafford Borough Council in May, after a previous attempt to bring the school to the site was refused in September.

About 20 full-time staff would be employed at the school if plans are approved.

The application said pupils would arrive by council minibuses rather than public transport or walking routes.

Developers said Marshlands School, in the Wildwood area of the town, was already operating at 115.3% capacity, while 427 Staffordshire pupils went to SEND schools outside the county in 2025.

The timber-framed barn was partly destroyed by fire in the 20th Century before later being restored.

A previous application was rejected over concerns including traffic, insufficient parking and the effects on the listed building.

Planners also raised issues around a lack of biodiversity information and missing noise and lighting assessments.

Documents said the barns, which would have been part of the Seighford Hall estate, were currently in a deteriorated condition.

A decision will be made by the council at a future date.

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