Empty for eight years, Scunthorpe building finally gets a proper job

Some buildings in Scunthorpe have been empty so long they're practically local landmarks. The former Darley Centre is about to stop being one of them.

The old school building has stood empty for eight years. It has now been bought by Polaris Community, a provider for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It will become a specialist school, expected to open in April 2027 under a new name.

There will be 42 places for children aged five to 18 with SEND and social, emotional and mental health needs. Classes will have no more than eight children, each with a teacher and a teaching assistant, and one-to-one support where needed.

Executive head teacher Derek Fance said Scunthorpe was chosen "due to the demand in the area". The renovation includes sensory spaces, an indoor hall for dining and play, a teaching kitchen, and energy efficiency and accessibility upgrades. Contractors have kept most of the original features. A building that gets a proper refurbishment instead of a bulldozer. In this economy.

It's also hiring: a head teacher, seven teachers, seven teaching assistants and ten other staff.