Planning permission has been granted for a new special school in Deighton.

Kirklees Council, in partnership with Wellspring Academy Trust, is building a new school on the site of the former Deighton Centre.

It will become the new home of Joseph Norton Academy which is to relocate from Scissett.

The existing school only has 63 places and there’s limited space for expansion. The new school will have 132 places for children and young people aged four to 18 in a more central location, cutting travel distances for some pupils.

Building the new Joseph Norton Academy is part of work being led by the council, alongside partner organisations, to transform support for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The next step will be appointing a contractor to carry out the building works.

Tom Brailsford, strategic director for children’s services, said: “This is another great example of how we’re supporting children and young people with SEND so they can achieve the best possible outcomes.

“We’re ambitious for all of our children, especially those who need extra help, and the new school will be a fantastic addition to our local education offer.

“Joseph Norton Academy caters for a wide range of needs and will have better facilities, more space, a more suitable location and around double the current number of places.

“Nationally, there is increasing demand for specialist school provision. We are investing in our children and families, not only to provide what’s needed but to enhance lives for many years to come.”

David Shepherd, strategic director for growth and regeneration, said: “We have worked closely with Joseph Norton Academy and the Wellspring Academy Trust in designing high-quality facilities, both indoors and outdoors.

“The new school will help pupils to fulfil their potential in an environment that’s especially tailored to support them.”

Joseph Norton is one of two special schools in Kirklees which is to move and expand. Woodley School and College – which caters for pupils with complex autism – is moving from Lowerhouses to a new, purpose-built school on the site of the former Almondbury Community School.