To ask the Minister of Education (I) for an update on the development of the new five hundred pupil, 3-19 special school in South Belfast, including whether a preferred site has now been identified; and (ii) to detail the current status of any business case.

The procurement of an integrated consultancy team (ICT) for the proposed new 500-pupil, 3-19 special school in the South Belfast area is currently underway, with appointment expected by May 2027.

A preferred site has not yet been identified. This will be determined through the feasibility and business case process. The feasibility will commence following the appointment of the ICT and this will inform development of the business case.