The Brache confirmed as preferred site for new Luton free school

The planned site of Chiltern Academy, on Gipsy Lane, Luton

Earlier this month the Department for Education approved Chiltern Learning Trust’s plans for a mixed-sex secondary school, which will open in September 2018.

CLT, which has named the school Chiltern Academy, previously said that it was looking at sites in the ‘south central’ part of the town and this afternoon Luton Borough Council confirmed that it intends to base the school on land at Gipsy Lane, opposite Luton Retail Park.

LBC is set to make a planning application for a change of use for the land and has opened up a consultation on the proposal.

Cllr Mahmood Hussain, LBC’s portfolio holder for education said: “Luton Borough Council is very proud of the high standards and achievements of the young people in our schools.

“By investing further in facilities we aim to continue to give current and future students access to the educational opportunities they deserve.

Cllr Hussain added: “It is important that as part of this process we hear the views of the local community so please come along to one of the information event or let the council know what you think.”

> A survey on the plan can be found at www.luton.gov.uk/currentconsultations