Hundreds of new school places for children with special educational needs and disabilities will be created across the region, following the approval of a major capital investment programme by Hampshire County Council.
The £633 million children’s services capital programme commits to improving school buildings and expanding capacity across the county.
As part of the programme, 397 new SEND places will be created between 2026 and 2027, at a cost of £25.2 million.
The investment forms part of a wider strategy to ensure more children can be educated closer to home, while easing pressure on specialist provision.
Alongside new school places, the council will continue to invest in children’s social care, including adaptations to foster carers’ homes, and equipment and home adaptations to help disabled children and young people live more independently.
Projects within the 2026/27 to 2028/29 capital programme are expected to create a further 3,410 school places, bringing the total number of new school places created in Hampshire to 17,814 by September 2029.
Ten new schools, including two special schools, are planned to open in Hampshire over the next three years including:
Prince Philip Barracks, Bordon – a 420-place primary school due to open in September 2028
Hazelton Farm/Land east of Horndean – a 315-place primary school expected to open in September 2029
One Horton Heath – a 630-place primary school scheduled to open in September 2028
In addition, the Government has committed funding for a new free special school in Hampshire.
Windmill Academy, a 135-place co-educational school for pupils aged four to 19 with severe learning difficulties, is planned to open in Whiteley in January 2029.
Hampshire County Council says it is working closely with the Department for Education (DfE) to agree the final design, delivery timetable and funding arrangements for the new school.
The council is also in discussions with the DfE regarding a new secure children’s home (SCH) to replace Swanwick Lodge.
A new purpose-built 18-bed SCH is being developed, with an expected cost of around £69 million.
Work on site is scheduled to commence in May 2028, with tenders due to be issued in Autumn 2026 and a contractor appointed in late 2026 or early 2027.
At a decision day meeting on January 21, cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Roz Chadd, approved the paper to be submitted for consideration by cabinet and final approval by the full council on February 26, 2026.
She said: “That £632 million over three years is incredible – it allows us to deliver these school places and make a real difference.
“Focusing on school places and SEND provision adds value to our school communities, the families, and the children who use them.”
Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today!
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.
Pedestrian in life-threatening condition following Peacehaven collision
Southsea man jailed for non-recent child sexual abuse
MP for Sussex Weald hits out over government action to house asylum seekers in Crowborough
Sussex county council elections postponed amid reorganisation
Hampshire Lane Rental scheme submitted to the government
NSPCC Schools Service seeks new volunteers in Eastbourne to help children Speak out, Stay safe
Businesses in the Chichester District invited to contribute to new business insight survey
Chichester councillor urges tribute to cricketing legend
Police are match-ready ahead of derby game this weekend
Adur & Worthing Councils launches strategy to reduce homelessness
On Air