Demolition work has started this week to make parts of the site of the new Lisburne special school site safe.

The site, in Offerton, was hit by a significant fire on Tuesday, 24 January, when six crews of firefighters were called to tackle a blaze.

A large building, part of the development which will eventually offer places for 208 special education needs and disabilities (SEND) children from reception to Year Six, was on fire and suffered major damage.

An assessment has now been carried out and investigations undertaken to assess the scale of the damage.

Stockport Metropolitan Council says there is no alternative but a restart, which will mean demolition of some existing structures.

A statement from the council says: "Following a fire at the new Lisburne School site in January 2023, investigations have been taking place to assess the scale of the damage.

"Unfortunately, part of the building is beyond repair so demolition work has commenced.

"Due to the complex nature of the demolition, it is not possible to provide a firm timescale for this work; however, estimates are that the demolition process could take up to 21 weeks, following which the damaged area of the building will be reconstructed to the same design.

"The Council apologises for the inconvenience and will update residents on progress via further updates and newsletters."