A SPECIAL needs school is being planned in Wickford.

The proposal is to convert offices on the Wickford Business Park, Sopwith Crescent, off Hurricane Way, into a centre catering for up to 30 children, aged 11 to 17.

However, councillors have raised concerns about whether the area needs another specialised school or if an industrial estate is appropriate.

Iris Pummell, a councillor for Wickford Crouch, said: “This concerns me. Castledon School already caters for children with special needs.

“You have to be careful when you are taking on special needs children they are properly assessed and given the correct support.”

Wickford Castledon councillor Malcolm Buckley is also concerned.

He said: “Firstly I would want to make sure any such proposal had the backing of Essex County Council.

“Clearly the council’s views would be significant in influencing the outcome for me.

“Increasing educational facilities is, in principle, a good thing, but what we would not want to do is have a detrimental effect on other local facilities.

“Another question would be whether an industrial estate is appropriate for children who will clearly need more support than children in mainstream schools.”

Continuum Care and Education Group, which provides educational, residential and family support facilities for young people in Britain, is behind the plans.

Scott Wilson, a spokesman for Essex County Council, said: “We are determined to provide the highest quality education for all students.

“The council is working to provide a new centre in Wickford for young children with learning difficulties and special needs.

“Continuum Care and Education Group has an excellent track record in doing this and has been appointed and is securing appropriate premises.”

A decision is expected in July.