Discovery Trust's SEND Plan for Melton Theatre

0:00It's April 30th. You're listening to Lester News today, AI-powered local news. Discovery Trust just dropped a bid to transform the Milton Theatre and Old College site into a specialist spot for kids with special educational needs and disabilities. The place on Asperby Road used to be SMB College, which merged with Loughborough College Group back in 2025 and now it's up for grabs. At 3.5 million pounds after hitting the market in February, the Trust, which runs Birchwood Special School right there in Milton, wants to keep the site buzzing for the community while filling a huge gap in, sand services. They submitted the proposal straight to Loughborough College, aiming to create dedicated spaces for students across Lestershire, especially in, Milton District, Harborough, and Charnewood. Local families are feeling the pinch from a real shortage of specialist spots, with hundreds of young people short on proper provision. Discovery Trust sees this as a way to step up, supporting kids from age 4,

1:00up to 19, and keeping the theaters by the live for shows through the year. They're pushing for about 75 new-send places spread across age groups, calling it a solid, sustainable plan. Rosalind Hawkins, their director of specialist provision, says it's all about community needs and smart finances, but admits it's a tricky process, with some moving parts out of their hands. We'll keep eyes on how this unfolds, as the trust stays locked in on the best outcome for everyone involved.