The London Borough of Havering has awarded the contractor the main works package for the Balgores SEND School at Gidea Park through a call-off from the Southern Construction Framework 5.

The new school will provide places for up to 300 children and young people aged four to 19 with autistic spectrum disorder, severe learning difficulties  and social, emotional and mental health needs.

At more than 6,000 sq m, the development is set to become one of the largest SEND schools in the UK and will help tackle growing demand for specialist education places across East London.

Plans for the Balgores Lane site include 38 classrooms alongside a hydrotherapy pool, enterprise hub, performance space and café. Several facilities are intended to be available for community use outside school hours.

External works will include dedicated pupil drop-off areas, staff parking, extensive landscaping, outdoor play areas and a multi-use games area.