Stonehenge: Major expansion at site as 'Neolithic classroom' and learning centre approved

Major development plans have been greenlit at the Stonehenge visitor centre, with Wiltshire Council approving a planning application for new educational facilities.

The application was submitted to the council by English Heritage in November 2023, seeking permission to erect two new buildings roughly 2.5 miles west of the Stonehenge Circle.

As per the proposal, these plans form part of a broader investment strategy aimed at enhancing the visitor experience at Stonehenge.

The first building is set to be a new learning centre located east of the Ancillary Building, next to the shuttle bus turnaround north of the visitor centre.

The second building, as per the plans, will be a 'Neolithic structure' housing a 'Neolithic classroom', situated east of the visitor centre, close to the existing 'Neolithic village'.

The learning centre, with a total floor area of 397 square metres, will feature a STEM lab and a learning studio linked to outdoor spaces.

Meanwhile, the "Neolithic classroom" will draw inspiration from evidence of Neolithic communal buildings discovered at Durrington Walls, located in the north-eastern part of the World Heritage Site.

The proposed area is set to offer an "immersive and authentic" experience, combining "costumed storytelling, object handling and hands-on activities" to give students a more profound appreciation of Neolithic life.

The application from English Heritage stated: "Given its international status and cultural significance, English Heritage believes that Stonehenge should have a sector-leading education offer as befits this unique and special place – one that ensures that all education groups, both free and paying visits, have a world-class experience."

Additionally, English Heritage emphasised the commitment to sustainability by ensuring the new construction aims for net zero carbon in its operation.

Wiltshire Council's case officer report acknowledged the potential increase in traffic due to the new facilities but noted that it would likely be bus traffic, aligning with the council's policy to reduce private car travel.

The report concluded: "It is concluded that the public benefits of the proposal would outweigh the limited harm to heritage assets in the planning balance and refusal on heritage and landscape grounds would not be justified."

The council therefore approved the proposals.