A new facility to enable children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to be educated locally, within a mainstream school, have been given the green light by Rutland County Council's planning team.

The new facility is to be developed as part of a partnership between the council and Uppingham Community College and will provide a bespoke learning environment for children with SEND requirements.

Currently, a number of Rutland children and young people with SEND attend schools outside the county.

It is intended that the new facility will provide places for up to 10 young people who have communication and interaction needs, including those on the Autistic Spectrum, which will enable them to live, be educated and grow with independence within their community.

David Wilby, Cabinet Member for Lifelong Learning and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, said: "I am delighted planning has been approved for this facility.

"Its development will enable young people with special educational needs and disabilities to be educated as part of a mainstream education offer, ensuring our young people are educated together, within an inclusive environment, where they live."

Rutland will receive £848k Capital from the Government between 2018 and 2021 to support the £700k capital project and other projects for children with SEND.

Now planning has been granted, a contractor is set to be appointed by mid-July, with works to commence in August 2019. Works are expected to last for approximately five months, ready for students in September 2020.