A new school for children with autism is to be built in Chessington.

The Department for Education has approved Kingston Council’s application for a free school that will provide 90 places.

The number of children and young people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has risen significantly, and currently some of these pupils have to travel to schools outside the borough.

Councillor Diane White, portfolio holder for children’s services including education at Kingston Council, said: “This is fantastic news for the borough, particularly for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, as it means we can be sure that we are offering the very best quality education and care, closer to home.

“I look forward to seeing these exciting plans progress as we provide much-needed places for children and young people with ASD-specific needs.”

Achieving for Children, which runs the council’s children’s services, will hold a competition this spring to find a provider, planning to announce the successful bidder in the summer.

The school, expected to open in September 2022, will be located on the Moor Lane Centre site, subject to approval at a council meeting later this year.

Some services for children with disabilities are currently run from the centre – and some of these might have to be moved.

The council promises a “smooth transition” for any that are, and Cllr White said she wanted to reassure families that the new venues will be suitable and accessible.