Acre Wood SEN School
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ECE Planning
ECE Planning was entrusted by East Sussex County Council to manage the planning process for a new Special Educational Needs (SEN) secondary school building in Crowborough, East Sussex. The proposals envisioned a purpose-built facility featuring thoughtfully designed outdoor learning and play areas, complemented by considered hard and soft landscaping, and a sustainable drainage strategy.
We developed a strategy carefully tailored to the project’s unique requirements, proactively addressing the site’s specific constraints to ensure the seamless delivery of this vital educational infrastructure. Our approach commenced with early, collaborative engagement with the Local Planning Authority and key consultees, establishing a clear and efficient path through the planning process.
Recognising the value of community involvement, we facilitated a public consultation, actively gathering feedback from parents, neighbours, and school representatives. This collaborative approach ensured that local perspectives were thoughtfully integrated into the final proposals, reflecting our commitment to a people-first strategy.
Despite navigating planning challenges relating to biodiversity, tree protection, and visual impact, our coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach resulted in a comprehensive and well-supported submission, underpinned by robust technical assessments. Following detailed negotiation, planning permission was secured, and our ongoing support continues to assist with the implementation phase, bringing much-needed specialist education provision to the area. We work to support developments through all stages of the planning process.
