The plans are to take down water towers, outbuildings and chimneys at Les Nicolles vinery.

They will then be replaced with a new secondary special school and a mainstream secondary school to be completed in 2007.

The application is being considered by the Environment Department.

The Education Department plans to use the former vinery site, in the north of the island, for a new secondary special school which will cater for pupils between the ages of 11 and 16 with a range of disabilities and learning difficulties.

It will be co-located with a new mainstream secondary school to replace St Sampson's Secondary School.

A central block featuring a swimming pool, hall and some dining facilities will be shared by the two schools. A proposed new road running across the north east of the site will improve access to the two new schools.

If the application is approved, both schools are scheduled for completion in 2007.