Wiltshire Council has announced a consultation on its vision to transform special needs schools.

The council is welcoming the views of parents, carers, pupils and staff on its proposal to invest £20m in a new centre of excellence for pupils with special needs and disabilities.

It will be developed at Rowdeford near Devizes.

Old schools in Wiltshire including Chippenham will close in 2023.

The proposals for the purpose-built and amply-equipped school will address the need for an additional 220 special educational needs and disability (SEND) places for Wiltshire.

Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This ambitious investment will transform SEND in Wiltshire and provide outstanding schooling for special needs pupils into the future.

“We are bringing together the best facilities, the best teaching and the best learning environment.

"This will help our staff apply their expertise and experience in greater strength and with greater purpose.

“The vision will mean change, and that can sometimes be challenging. But we’re certain that pupils, families and staff will love the new schools.”

People have until March 1, 2019 to comment on the proposal.

There are a number of ways to respond to the consultation.

You can go to bit.ly/2RjAPvI, email specialschools@wiltshire.gov.uk, or you can go to one of the open meetings for parents and carers, with dates and more information at bit.ly/2H62NXd

The final decision on the vision for SEND will be made at Wiltshire Council’s cabinet meeting in March 2019 after completion of the consultation.