By Jason Lewis, Local Democracy Reporter

Plans which could see The Gregg School move towards a single-site operation have taken a step forward after proposals for additional classroom space were approved.
Photo: Google

The Gregg School, an independent co-educational school, has been given the green light for plans to retain two temporary classrooms and add a further four at its Cutbush Lane site.

As reported, this could lead to the prep school in Portswood being relocated and join the main school at Townhill Park House.

A report by Southampton City Council planning officers said: “This accommodation would support the operational needs of The Gregg School, including the ability to respond flexibly to changing pupil numbers and the potential consolidation of its campuses onto the Townhill Park site.”

A statement submitted as part of the application said the move to a single site was being assessed due to a fall in pupil numbers, potential changes to the rental agreement at the current prep school site in Winn Road, the removal of business rate reliefs and rising utility bills.

The statement by Wessex Planning said: “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 Gregg School, which has annual fees of up to £19,860, moved to Townhill Park House in 1994.

The planning officer’s report added: “The proposal would support the continued and flexible operation of an established educational facility and is strongly aligned with both local and national planning objectives, which place significant weight on the provision and retention of school places.”