Work Begins on New Town Centre Sixth Form for Walton Hall Academy

Work has officially started on a major project to relocate the sixth form provision for Walton Hall Academy into the heart of Stafford town centre. The move will see the ground floor of 2 Staffordshire Place (SP2) transformed into a modern learning hub for approximately 75 young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The Vision: Boosting Independence

The project, backed by an investment of £1 million from Staffordshire County Council, aims to help students transition into adulthood. By moving from the academy’s main site in Eccleshall to a central town location, students will have better access to local shops, transport links, and community facilities.

The Academy’s Principal, Julie Wood, previously highlighted that being in the town centre will provide "greater opportunities" for students to develop life skills and prepare for employment. Councillor Jonathan Price added that the central location is vital for helping young people become more independent in a safe, supported environment.

The Building and Access

The new facility will occupy the ground floor of the council-owned building. A key feature of the development is the creation of a new main entrance, which will be located in the central plaza, directly opposite the entrance to Stafford Library.

Planning documents show that the project received support from the community during the consultation phase, with several neighbours expressing their backing for the scheme and no formal objections recorded.

Existing Floor Plan

Proposed Floor Plan

Addressing Transport and Highways

A significant part of the planning process involved coordinating transport for the students. Initial concerns were raised regarding a proposed drop-off point on Greengate Walk due to existing traffic restrictions. Following discussions with SCC Highways, the plan was updated to ensure safety:

• Public Transport: Many of the post-16 students will be encouraged to use public transport as part of their Independent Travel Training. The site is well-served by bus stops on Bridge Street, Eastgate Street, and South Walls, all within 0.2 miles.

• Designated Drop-off: For students using arranged transport, a drop-off point has been identified on Eastgate Street, near the police station.

• Minibuses: The academy will operate its own minibuses for school trips, with an estimated two bus loads (30 students) per day.

• Parental Access: Parents choosing to drop off students are encouraged to use nearby public car parks or Blue Badge bays at St Chad’s Place.

The academy clarified that students with the most complex needs or those who are full-time wheelchair users will remain at the main Eccleshall site, ensuring the town centre hub is tailored for those ready to develop their community independence.