A public consultation is set to decide the future of The Henry Cort Community College in Fareham.

Running from January 10 until February 14, 2025, on Hampshire County Council’s website, the council is seeking views on the proposed relocation of the college from Hillson Drive to a new site in North Whiteley, from September 2027.

The decision to formally consult was approved by Cllr Roz Chadd, Cabinet Lead for Children’s Services.

Originally planned to open in early November, the agreed consultation was postponed after members of the County Council’s Children and Young People Select Committee asked to convene a meeting to discuss the matter.

However it was agreed by committee members on Tuesday, November 19, that the decision to consult doesn’t need to be reconsidered.

Though the consultation ends in February, no final decision will be made until June, following local elections.

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The proposal to relocate the school comes as council forecasts show that the ongoing development of the Whiteley area will result in demand for between 900 and 1,200 secondary school places.

A new secondary school in North Whiteley is planned to meet the predicted need for school places across the Whiteley area, though this has been contested by some Fareham residents who would prefer for a new school to be built on its existing site.

Following the Select Committee, Cllr Chadd said: “I understand there are a range of views on the proposed relocation of Henry Cort, and I can assure local residents and my fellow members that all feedback is highly valued and appreciated.

“This is why we continue to consult extensively on this matter, and why it is so important for the Whiteley and Fareham community to come forward and share their views with us through the upcoming formal consultation.  

“I must stress that that no final decision has been taken, and will not be until June next year, following thorough consideration of all feedback received and the many important factors concerning the long-term educational offer in the local area.” 

A further report outlining feedback from the formal consultation, and a final recommendation, will be presented to Cllr Chadd for her consideration at a public decision day meeting in June 2025.