School could get new home

HERONSBRIDGE School in Bridgend could be set to move from its current location on Ewenny Road to a new site approximately one mile away on Island Farm.

Bridgend Council’s cabinet met this week to discuss consultations to relocate the school, concluding that the move would have a positive impact for all learners and staff.

Council bosses say the benefits of the proposal would include an increased number of places for pupils with additional learning needs, as well as the introduction of new facilities such as a swimming pool, library, running track and coffee shop.

Due to its location and size the Island Farm site in Bridgend was deemed to be the most suitable for the development, in an area which once held a prison of war camp during the 1940s.

However, the relocation would not have an impact on the Hut 9 which is a listed building. Speaking during the consultation, Heronsbridge head teacher Jeremy Evans said even though change was scary it was still a very exciting opportunity for them moving forward.

Cllr Jon-Paul Blundell, cabinet member for Education, added: “The relocation and rebuild of Heronsbridge School will make sure pupils get the help, support and education that they both need and deserve.”

The relocation of Heronsbridge is part of the £68 million school modernisation programme which will see new schools and improved educational facilities built around Bridgend County Borough.

The future use of the existing Heronsbridge School site would be subject to an options appraisal and a future Cabinet decision. The main school building has also recently been listed by Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service.