Provisions for children in North East Lincolnshire with special educational needs and disabilities will be expanded, the council has said.

The authority is working closely with education and health partners to create over 200 additional places between 2025 and 2027.

The council said it wants to make more special education provision available so children don’t have to travel outside the borough.

The plans include a new 150-place specialist education center for children who have difficulties with social, emotional and mental health.

There will also be 12 extra places available at Cambridge Park Special School, specifically for children with autism or learning disabilities.

Following the success of the 2023 Launchpad scheme, which provides primary school places for children with communication and interaction needs, a further 50 places will open over the next two years.

Councilor Margaret Cracknell said: “Our vision is to create new educational provision for children who struggle with a range of special educational needs, where they can receive appropriate support and have access to a good quality education, while remaining in same time in their hometown”.