THE former site of Grappenhall Hall School could be developed into a boutique hotel or new homes if the land goes up for sale later this year.

Residents are being asked what they think the old school grounds should be used for as part of a consultation by Warrington Borough Council.

The school for pupils with special educational needs moved from its site on Church Lane to Green Lane in Padgate in September 2015.

Since then, the council has asked the Department of Education for permission to dispose of the land, either by selling it or developing it for another use.

Councillor Mike Biggin (LD – Grappenhall) said: “The residents have been very positive. It’s a conservation area and it’s got a great deal of heritage and I think is one of the prettiest villages.

“We want to keep the village setting.”

A consultation period is due to come to an end shortly in which residents have been asked how the 13.3 acre site could best be used to serve the community.

Cllr Biggin said: “We are completely open minded about this.

“One option is a development or a residential home but it would have to be approved. A boutique hotel would perhaps be acceptable.

“Everybody’s aware that it’s a beautiful place and we want to keep the village vibrant.

“Everything will be done in consultation with the residents. We do have to be very cautious – it’s a huge site and it’s got to be an appropriate development.”

A spokesman for Warrington Borough Council said: “We are currently consulting on the future of this site and there are a range of options available.

“The consultation period, which ends shortly, is giving local people the chance to have their say on how the land can best be used to serve the local area.

“We will take all views on board before making a decision. At that point, we will make an application for the disposal of the site to the Department for Education. This application will need to be approved by the Secretary of State.”

A decision is expected in the autumn.

The consultation ends on July 1 and comments should be made in writing to the Access and Assets Team at Warrington Borough Council.