Construction firm Kier has been appointed to develop a new £12.5m special educational needs (SEN) school for disabled children.

The project has been procured through the North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) framework.

The company was appointed by Kier has been appointed by Sunderland City Council.

The 4000m2 new-build school is set to replace a current facility that is at the end of its life. Construction of therapy provisions for pupils will range from rebound therapy, hydrotherapy pool, sensory facilities, soft play and each class will have a storage area for mobility equipment. Informal play and grass playing fields will also be provided across the wider site, alongside a wetlands area, nature trail and habitat area.

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When the school is completed the school site will offer around 56 regular parking spaces and four accessible bays for staff and visitors, along with electric charging bays for four vehicles. Meanwhile, cycle-friendly facilities will also be incorporated as part of the development, including secure storage shelters and changing facilities with showers to encourage use of sustainable commuting.

The facility will start on site in late spring and is due to be completed in the summer of 2022.