Clydach Vale ALN School

The Challenge

To transform a brownfield site formerly used for industrial and business use into a purpose built ALN facility with a natural setting and strong outdoor learning credentials.  

Our Role

We are acting as Planning Consultants and Landscape Architects for the project. To date we have managed all aspects of the planning process, coordinating the application, negotiating a permission and agreeing the approval of key conditions to start on site.  As Landscape Architect we have been at the centre of the design of the scheme, coordinating the layout with wider client and design team and defining the hard and soft landscape scheme.  The latter included close engagement with the supporting ecologists to set the basis for delivering Biodiversity Net Gain alongside meeting key learning, amenity and sustainable drainage functions. As the site moves into the construction stage we will help to oversee the delivery of the landscape design. 

The Outcome

This development is now in delivery and will transform the former contaminated brownfield site—most recently home to the Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) County Borough Council offices—into a purpose-built ALN facility, thoughtfully integrated within its mature natural surroundings, providing direct access to nature and the wider countryside.

Designed to accommodate up to 176 pupils aged 3-19, Clydach ALN School will serve as both an educational facility and a long-term community asset. The design embraces a ‘learning-through-landscapes’ approach, incorporating Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), nature-based play areas, outdoor classrooms, and integrated artwork to promote well-being. The scheme also prioritizes sustainability, featuring a biosolar roof and extensive native planting that complements the adjacent Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).

https://www.rctcbc.gov.uk/EN/Newsroom/PressReleases/2025/March/PlansapprovedtodeliveramodernALNschoolinClydachVale.aspx