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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Planning documents said there was a growing need for specialist provision in the borough.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
About 20 full-time staff would be employed at the school if plans are approved.<\/p>\n
The application said pupils would arrive by council minibuses rather than public transport or walking routes.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The timber-framed barn was partly destroyed by fire in the 20th Century before later being restored.<\/p>\n
A previous application was rejected over concerns including traffic, insufficient parking and the effects on the listed building.<\/p>\n
Planners also raised issues around a lack of biodiversity information and missing noise and lighting assessments.<\/p>\n
Documents said the barns, which would have been part of the Seighford Hall estate, were currently in a deteriorated condition.<\/p>\n
A decision will be made by the council at a future date.<\/p>\n
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