The Milestone School in Gloucester, which faced a severe flooding event in late 2024, is seeking approval to maintain emergency classrooms for an additional two years. A two-storey temporary building was put in place following water damage caused by heavy rain last September.
The school has applied to Gloucester City Council to retain the temporary classroom block while repair work is conducted on the main school complex. Serving children with special needs from ages three to 16, the school is located on Longford Lane.
According to planning documents submitted by Avalon Planning & Heritage on behalf of the school, “the school experienced a severe flooding event in one of the established buildings, making it presently unusable for educational purposes.” The Sands Trust, responsible for the school, made the decision to order the temporary structure to ensure continuity of educational services at the familiar site.
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The flooding on September 20 affected multiple establishments including schools, shops, and homes. The aftermath led to the closure of Chosen Hill School in Churchdown and Tewkesbury CofE Primary.
Speaking to parents after the incident, Headteacher Stephen Dowell expressed regret over the closure due to severe flooding caused by torrential rain, underscoring the challenging circumstances faced by the school.
The application emphasizes that the temporary buildings are intended strictly for the duration of repair works to address the flood damage. It also highlights the need for immediate emergency accommodation to minimize disruption for pupils. The school stresses that once the flood-damaged building is restored, the temporary classrooms will be removed, as there is no long-term requirement for them.