PLANNING is under way for the expansion of Currimundi Special School, with temporary classrooms being built over the summer holidays to accommodate a rapidly growing student population.
Deputy principal Frank Van der Koyy said the new temporary building was a “stop gap measure” until plans for a more permanent structure were finalised.
The temporary building on the school’s sporting field would provide four low-set classrooms, and remain for the next two years, he said.
“Our enrolment is increasing every year and we’ve got limited grounds to grow in,” he said.
Principal Alwyn Green said the Department of Education and Training had purchased four neighbouring properties for the permanent development.
“The land is currently owned by the government and I understand that there will be community consultation organised by the Department of Education and Training before the properties are designated for any construction,” he said.
“In providing appropriate learning spaces and classrooms for our students during this period of growth, where possible, we would always plan to minimise the impact on our neighbours.”
Neighbours at surrounding properties were waiting anxiously for an opportunity to see the building plans, said Anne St resident Tim Hamilton.
Mr Hamilton said he had delayed renovations of his home because of uncertainty about the visual and property value implications of the development.
“It’d be nice to be involved in that planning phase rather than see the end result,” he said.
The news that more facilities for the school’s burgeoning population will be built was welcomed by parents Sophie Cashen and Lyn (pictured), who asked that her surname not be used.
Sophie and Lyn agreed that new buildings were needed to make room for 20 new students arriving at the school next year, and would prevent overcrowding.
Contact Currimundi Special School on 5491 0222 for more information