Medway Council develops £1.5m unit for autistic pupils
A £1.5m building for children with autism is to be developed in Chatham on the site of a former primary school.
Medway Council said the move was to increase specialist autism provision so more children could be educated close to home, rather than having to travel.
The unit will be used as a specialist teaching facility for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.
It will be developed on the site of former Ridge Meadow primary school which closed in 2009.
'Have to travel'
Councillor Les Wicks said: "We want our children and young people to succeed in learning and providing these specialist teaching facilities means we can provide modern, flexible environments suited to their needs, right here in Medway."
Currently, some children with autism in Medway have to travel out of the area to Kent, or further afield.
Sixth form students from Bradfields School, which provides education for students with complex learning difficulties and disabilities, will also use the building.
Several facilities for children with autism have been developed across Medway.
Units have also been created at primary and secondary schools in Rainham, Hoo, Gillingham, Strood and Chatham.