Plans to convert the former Elmgrove Primary School, once attended by musician Van Morrison, into a special school have been delayed, with the site's redevelopment not expected to begin until late 2026. The original target for the school to reopen as a special educational needs (SEN) facility was September 2026, but parents and school governors are voicing concerns over the lack of visible progress.
Jonny Collins, whose six-year-old daughter Nancy is a pupil at the existing Greenwood House SEN facility, stated that 32 pupils are currently being taught in four portacabins. Collins criticized the Education Authority (EA), saying, "They have sat on their hands for the guts of a year." He emphasized the need for specialized facilities such as sensory rooms, breakout rooms, a canteen, and an indoor play area, which are lacking in the temporary accommodation.
"Parents, staff and pupils deserve clear timelines, better facilities and urgent action from the Education Authority to deliver this much-needed school," said Gary Forbes, chair of Greenwood's governors. Forbes expressed deep concern over the year-long delay since the move was announced, noting the insufficient temporary accommodations for children with severe learning difficulties.
The EA has acknowledged the delays, citing the complexity of redeveloping the former Elmgrove building, which is a listed building. "As a listed building, this is a significant and complex scheme, requiring careful planning, consultation with relevant stakeholders, and input from the Historic Environment Division before final options could be agreed," an EA spokesperson stated. The authority is committed to delivering a purpose-built facility with specialist classrooms, sensory spaces, a soft playroom, and secure outdoor play areas.
Following "unavoidable construction delays," the EA and the school agreed to provide temporary modular accommodation to ensure full-time education could continue. Detailed design work for the former Elmgrove building is currently underway. Enabling works are scheduled to commence in December 2026, with the main contractor expected to be appointed in early 2027. This timeline pushes the projected completion of the new special school significantly beyond the initial September 2026 target.