A special school in Olton has now received planning permission for major improvements which will enable it to take on more pupils in future.

As the Local Democracy Reporting Service has previously reported the plans for Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) maintained Reynalds Cross School are said to be desperately needed as one of its current buildings has reached the end of its life.

Solihull councillors previously heard a building called The Link – which houses 20 students with a severe learning difficulty at the Kineton Green Road school – has reached a point it was no longer economical for it to be repaired.

Cllr Karen Grinsell, the authority's leader and cabinet portfolio holder for children, education and skills, gave the go-ahead for the major transformation in June.

A planning application was then submitted to SMBC planners for two extensions and internal alterations. The plans included:

• A new large wing housing a new multi purpose hall, kitchen, SEND resources such as soft play and quiet areas for autistic children
• A new block at the front of the school which would have three areas – two classrooms for pupils with learning difficulties and a third room for occupational therapy
• Work inside the school including larger classrooms, a nursing hub and new staff room

A design and access statement included in the application said: "The proposals for Reynalds Cross School deliver a carefully considered, therapeutic and inclusive environment that responds directly to the complex needs of its pupils and staff.

"The scheme provides a robust and compassionate learning environment while enabling the school to expand its SEND provision for the borough."

No objections were made in a public consultation and council planning officers wrote in their report: "The proposal would increase the capacity of the school from 20 pupils to 50.

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"The proposal would provide a significant increase in school spaces for children requiring specialist education in the borough, where there is an identified need.

"The proposed extensions of an acceptable design. The proposal would enhance the quality and attractiveness of the school setting and provide enhanced learning and play facilities for children."

On October 16 officer Mark Andrews, the council's head of planning, design and engagement service, issued a decision notice granting permission, subject to conditions.

The council's original timeline appears to have slipped as the plan had been for planning approval to be gained from Solihull planners by mid-August enabling 30 additional places to be made available in January 2028 once work was completed.

When the leader gave the go-ahead in the summer, Cllr Grinsell said: "It's a fabulous school but it needs some major work to be done – so very excited this is going to happen."