New SEND school planned for firm's ex-HQ

A Grade II listed hall which dates back to the early 19th Century could be transformed into a new independent school if plans are given the go-ahead.

Banner Cross Hall in Sheffield served as the headquarters of construction firm Henry Boot PLC for over 90 years until the firm sold it in 2023.

Nexus Multi-Academy Trust has applied for planning permission to repurpose the hall into a school for students with special educational needs and learning difficulties (SEND).

The new school would be named Hallamshire Academy and would cater for about 56 SEND pupils, a planning application submitted to Sheffield City Council stated.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the trust's application said it was in response to "the acknowledgement of Sheffield Council that there is a growing demand for specialist education provision".

"There is an increasing demand to provide comprehensive support for young people in need, which the council needs to address and accommodate," it said.

Banner Cross Hall, on Ecclesall Road South, was officially listed as Grade II listed in 1973.

Sheffield City Council's planning officers are expected to make a decision on the application by 10 July.

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