Doddington pub could become a 50-place specialist school

The George in Doddington could become a specialist school for up to 50 pupils aged 11 to 18.

Plans submitted to Fenland District Council would turn the pub and the flat above it into The Sage School. The supporting statement describes an independent day school for children with education, health and care plans, including pupils whose anxiety or mental health difficulties make school attendance hard.

Teaching would take place in classes of up to six. The statement anticipates about 15 staff and a school day running from 8.30am to 3.30pm on weekdays during term time.

The proposed conversion includes classrooms, a sensory room, smaller teaching and support spaces, and dining facilities using the existing kitchen. Garages would be demolished to make room for parking and a pupil drop-off area. The main building would be retained without an increase in its footprint.

Doddington Parish Council supports the proposal in principle. In its response of 11 September, it asks for clear arrangements for parking and turning within the site, entrance and exit signs, and a bound car-park surface. It also wants screening where the garages would come down and acoustic fencing to limit disturbance to neighbours.

Fenland's conservation officer raises a separate question: the loss of a longstanding pub needs a convincing justification. The officer supports removing the garages but describes the main building as a non-designated heritage asset in Doddington Conservation Area.

The school capacity and operating arrangements are proposals in the application, not an agreed opening programme. The record was awaiting a decision when checked on 14 September 2026.

Read the application and follow updates on PlanIndex (reference F/YR26/0640/F).