Hampshire County Council’s Regulatory Committee has granted planning consent for a new school in Boorley Green, near Botley, UK.
The new two-storey school, Luminous Oak, will accommodate 125 pupils aged 8 to 16.
Located within the wider Boorley Gardens development, the school will cater specifically for pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
Designed by the county council’s Property Services team, the school will include external play areas, parking spaces, and drop-off facilities.
Hampshire County Council education executive member and councillor Steve Forster said: “This is a much-needed special school which will provide a safe and supportive environment for pupils to learn and achieve and is part of our target of 1,000 new special needs places in Hampshire schools by 2030.
“Today’s decision marks a significant step forward and recognises the community’s need for specialised educational facilities, ensuring that every child receives the care and resources they deserve.”
Construction on the new school site is set to commence shortly, with an anticipated opening date in September 2026.
Luminous Oak will fall under Solent Academies Trust, which will be tasked with the building’s management, maintenance, and insurance.
Solent Academies Trust CEO Sharon Burt said: “We are delighted that planning permission has been granted by Hampshire County Council’s Regulatory Committee for our new special free school in Boorley Green.
“We are eager to move forward with the next phases of the project, with construction set to commence shortly. Additionally, we look forward to initiating staff recruitment for Luminous Oak Academy in the summer [mid-year] term, beginning with the appointment of a principal for the new school.”
