PLANNING approval has been granted for the construction of a brand-new, replacement building for Llangatwg Community School in Neath as part of Neath Port Talbot Council’s ongoing Strategic School Improvement Programme (SSIP).
The development will see a modern, purpose-built English-medium secondary school constructed on the existing school site. The new facility will accommodate up to 850 pupils, including dedicated provision for learners with additional learning needs.
The vision for the new school is to provide a high-quality, flexible learning environment that supports delivery of the Curriculum for Wales while offering enhanced facilities for pupils and the wider community.
Key features of the approved development include:
- State-of-the-art classrooms, flexible laboratories, roof terrace learning areas, IT suites, and a learning resource centre
- A sports hall, performance hall, vocational workshops with potential community use, conference rooms, and a range of outdoor facilities including two sports pitches, three multi-use games areas, and a forest school
- Amenities such as a greenhouse, amphitheatre/performance space, and food-growing area
- Designated bus, car, and taxi drop-off zones, with EV charging points and accessible parking
- A design focused on sustainability, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, developed through collaboration with ecology, landscaping, and drainage specialists
- Compliance with the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning requirements
The development forms part of a wider multi-million-pound investment in schools across Neath Port Talbot under the SSIP, delivered in partnership with the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme. The programme aims to ensure all pupils have access to high-quality education in modern, fit‑for‑purpose facilities.
Cllr Nia Jenkins, Cabinet Member for Education & Early Years, said: “Securing planning approval means we can now move forward with delivering a state-of-the-art learning environment for pupils at the school.
“This investment will provide modern, inclusive and sustainable facilities that not only support excellent teaching and learning but also benefit the wider community.”
