Prison reformer's house could become SEND school
GoogleA house once owned by a well-known prison reformer could be turned into a school for children with special needs.
Howard's House in Cardington near Bedford was bought in 1757 by John Howard, who campaigned for better prison conditions and whose name was later used by charity The Howard League for Penal Reform.
A planning application to turn it into a school for up to 50 pupils has been made by Stone Lodge Therapeutic School in Rothwell, Northamptonshire.
The applicant said it would provide "much-needed provision for SEN spaces within the local area".
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the applicant's proposals aimed to "sensitively" adapt the Grade II* listed property to provide a high-quality educational facility.
The school would be "cost-effective and practical", while preserving the "historic character" of the house.
It would have 17 full-time and eight part-time staff members, looking after up to 50 pupils aged between 11 and 18.
The borough council's highways department has lodged a formal objection due to the site's single-track lane access and lack of turning space.
A travel plan submitted by the applicant said the school would encourage staff to use bicycles and public transport to reach it.
Local people can comment on the proposal until 5 May.
Getty ImagesJohn Howard lived in the house with his second wife, Henrietta.
He was appointed High Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 1774, inspected the county prison as part of his duties and was reportedly shocked by what he found.
He was said to be particularly concerned about prisoners unable to pay the jailer's fee, and went on to spend many years inspecting jails across the country.
Do you have a story suggestion for Beds, Herts or Bucks? Contact us below.
Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
