The Council is investing in a refurbishment and extension of the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) setting, Buarth y Capel, in Ynysybwl. The first-class development scheduled to be delivered during the 2027 academic year will include a modern standalone teaching block as well as improvements to the existing building.
Buarth y Capel is a satellite site of Ysgol Ty Coch, focusing on provision for learners aged 14-19 with a diagnosis of severe or profound Autistic Spectrum Disorder, who require a bespoke provision beyond the generic ALN school criteria. The multi-million pound proposals will ensure the site can continue to meet the educational needs of pupils into the future.
The new teaching block will have six classrooms, while the development will also include breakout rooms, hygiene room facilities, accessible toilets, and a maintenance store/plant room. The new single-storey building will be constructed to 21st Century standards, and located on the eastern side of the existing school. The two buildings will be linked by a canopy walkway. Planning permission was granted in August 2026.
Exciting plans to extend ALN school in Ynysybwl granted permission (August 2026)
Associated works will provide photovoltaic panels on the south-facing roof, a soft play area, a new 18-space car park to the north of the site with four accessible spaces, a covered 6-bay cycle shelter, new security fencing, and access control gates. In addition, the site will be reconfigured to include a one-way vehicle access route, while the existing building will be improved.
The development will achieve ‘Net Zero carbon in operation’, conforming to the Council’s goals and commitments for Climate Change.
The investment will be delivered in partnership with Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme. EPT was the appointed architect to design the building, while Knox and Wells is the appointed contractor to deliver the building.