PLANS for new teaching block to be be built at a Neath Port Talbot school have taken a step closer after approvals to appoint a contractor were given the go-ahead.
The project could eventually see the creation of a £10 million extension added to the current school site at Ysgol Maes Y Coed, located off Main Road in Bryncoch.
Ysgol Maes Y Coed is a purpose built special school that opened in 2007. It caters for children with autism spectrum disorder, severe learning difficulties and profound and multiple learning difficulties.
The development will allow the school to take on 40 extra pupils who would benefit from its specialist facilities, as the current school has reached its capacity.
The idea for the extension was first approved by Neath Port Talbot Council’s cabinet in November of 2023 and will now move on to the procurement and design stage.
The report said: “The project will now progress to the procurement stage, with a contractor to be appointed via a legally compliant Two-Stage Design and Build process under the South West Wales Regional Construction Framework.
“No viable alternative options have been identified, and the proposed approach aligns with strategic priorities and regulatory requirements.
“While Welsh Government funding is anticipated, initial pre-construction costs must be met by the Council and are subject to reimbursement upon approval of the final business case.”
Neath Port Talbot Council’s head of property and regeneration will now be given delegated authority to begin the procurement exercise, and to appoint a design and build contractor with the highest scoring tender.
The move comes just months after the authority approved separate plans to build a net zero school to replace the current Rhosafan Primary School in Sandfields, Port Talbot.
