GOVERNORS at Larkrise Special School say they feel ‘powerless’ in determining the facility’s uncertain future but have vowed to fight on nonetheless.

Wiltshire Council says around 220 extra places for children with special education needs (SEN) are needed by 2026.

Teachers, governors and families are worried that Larkrise, in Trowbridge, could close.

They all agree, however, that it if moved to the larger Ashton Street Centre, which is currently boarded up, this could accommodate growing pupil numbers.

What frustrates and worries governor Jan Winfield though, is that despite the community’s protests, she feels powerless to do much about it.

“If Larkrise were to close, it would have a huge knock-on effect to so many people, it would be terrible,” she said.

“We urge Wiltshire Council to consider using the nearby Ashton Street Centre, which people had been using for parking, to be used as a new special school. It is right across the road, wouldn’t cost too much and it is big enough for us - it is perfect.

“I worry about a mega school with St Nicholas in Chippenham and Rowdeford near Devizes. I really hope they can find some funding because Larkrise is fantastic. All of us governors are very anxious about this and feel powerless but we will still fight our corner.”

Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Our schools in the north are full and we need to act now so we can provide up to 70 spaces for our children and young people with special needs and or disabilities into the future

The consultation is live until July 31 at http://wiltshire.objective.co.uk/portal/education/special_school_provision_in_wiltshire