Hampshire County Council plans Henry Cort school relocation to North Whiteley

Hampshire County Council has approved plans to relocate The Henry Cort Community College in Fareham to a new site in North Whiteley by September 2027, responding to the area's expanding population and anticipated demand for up to 1,200 secondary school places. The decision follows extensive public consultations and has faced notable opposition from local councillors, community members, and Fareham Borough Council, who argue the move will disrupt families, increase transportation burdens, and negatively impact one of the borough's most deprived communities. Supporters of the relocation, including council education chiefs and some school staff, argue that declining student numbers and funding at the current site would make the school's future unviable. Concerns have been raised about accessibility for disadvantaged students and the impact on educational outcomes, with reassurances from the council that transport solutions will be provided and that community input will guide the future use of the existing site. The council maintains that relocating is necessary to ensure long-term educational viability, while local officials continue to petition for the school to remain open at its current location alongside the new school. The final decision was expedited to provide clarity and stability for students, parents, and staff during the transition period.