By Jason Lewis, Local Democracy Reporter
The Gregg School is considering relocating its prep school in Portswood to join the main school at Townhill Park House.
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The potential scenario is outlined in a planning application which has been submitted to Southampton City Council, with the school needing to “futureproof its operations”.
Permission is being sought to retain two temporary classrooms, which received a five-year approval in 2021, and add a further four new temporary classrooms at the Cutbush Lane site.
A statement by Wessex Planning submitted as part of the application said the consolidation is being contemplated due to a fall in pupil numbers, potential changes to the rental agreement at the existing prep school site in Winn Road, the removal of business rate reliefs and rising utility bills adding strain to the school’s budget.
“Consolidation onto the Townhill Park site offers a potential cost-effective and sustainable long-term solution, enabling the ability for the Prep School to share resources and infrastructure while maintaining its distinct and well trusted educational identity,” the statement said.
It added that if the school needed to progress this proposal rapidly, it would need a temporary solution while working on a more permanent plan.
The four additional temporary classrooms would be located on an area of hardstanding, which was previously home to a temporary science block for more than 20 years before it was removed in 2016.
The Gregg School, which has annual fees of up to £19,860, moved to Townhill Park House in 1994.
The statement said the prep school recently had a special educational needs and disabilities proposal formally accepted by the council.
It said: “This initiative enables the school to welcome students with specific educational needs that can be effectively supported within its inclusive mainstream setting.
“The potential consolidation of the school onto one site would allow the Gregg Prep to better integrate these services within a more adaptable and supportive environment, enhancing outcomes for students and aligning with the council’s strategic goals for inclusive education.”
The application for the site is currently being considered by council planning officers, with a public consultation open until February 24 via the council's planning portal.
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