Woodlands Meed SEN college ready for pupils
A special needs college plagued by construction delays is now ready for pupils, a Sussex council says.
West Sussex County Council (WSCC) said Woodlands Meed College in Burgess Hill had made "significant steps forward" and was "now ready for pupils and staff to move in safely".
The multi-million pound facility was originally due to open last September.
The school will now decide on an opening date to "minimise disruption" to students.
The new £21.6m facilities for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) include a hydrotherapy pool, 12 new classrooms and two sports halls.
Delays in its construction had been put down to supply chain issues with labour and materials.
Jacquie Russell, WSCC cabinet member for children and learning, described the development as "a crucial moment" in a "very long journey".
"We’ve faced many challenges and setbacks along the way, but it is important to now look ahead to the benefits this provision will bring to children with special educational needs and disabilities", Ms Russell said.
During an inspection of the site last year, school governors had described being "gobsmacked" by the development's condition and described it like "a building site".
WSCC, which had previously been critical of delays in the project's timeline, said it "appreciated the frustrations of parents, pupils and staff".
The authority thanked everyone for their patience and said it was "ultimately proud" of what had been achieved.
Woodlands Meed College itself has been contacted for comment.
Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.
