As part of Knowsley Council’s investment into special education needs and disabilities (SEND) provision, the Lloyd Newcombe Centre has officially opened at the Kirkby Centre.
The new facility forms part of a £5.060 million phased investment in Alt Bridge special school, approved by Cabinet in November 2024, to increase SEND provision across the borough by 120 places and to help meet the growing demand.
The former vacant space on the ground floor of the Kirkby Centre has been transformed into a new post-16 provision, creating a dedicated space for Alt Bridge students with special educational needs and disabilities to continue their education journey.
The new facility has been named in memory of a former pupil who sadly passed away, in February 2026 after a severe asthma attack.
Now, the Lloyd Newcombe Centre provides a range of spaces including classrooms, a sensory room, meeting spaces and a home economics area.
During the transformation, local contractor Sterling Services (Northern) limited who completed the works, facilitated a taster day with pupils for them to learn more about the construction trade, helping to inspire their future career choice. The taster day was also supported by three of Sterling’s supply chain partners, Spectrum Drylining Limited, Stewart Construction (Northern) Ltd and Zenit Electrical Ltd.
Natalie Menagh, Head Teacher at Alt Bridge School, said “I’m delighted that our new post-16 education provision has officially opened, enabling our pupils to continue with their learning in modern and fit-for-purpose accommodation.
“The whole school community came together following Lloyd’s tragic death and we remember Lloyd in so many ways. Naming the centre is a fitting tribute to a Lloyd and I’m delighted that his family has joined us today for the opening.
“I’d also like to thank the Council’s Assets team for their oversight of this project and ensuring the design of the facilities matched our students’ needs. Sterling Services has been amazing too, enabling our pupils to learn about and try practical construction skills in a building they will use on a daily basis.
“I look forward to welcoming pupils to this new facility.”
Cllr Sean Donnelly, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, added “A key priority for us to support our children and young people with SEND and ensure they have access to support and services that can help them to achieve and also to prepare them for adulthood.
“The Lloyd Newcombe Centre provides them with a modern learning environment, enabling them to continue on their education journey and prepare them for their next steps into adulthood.”