MORE than 850 people responded to a consultation on investment to ensure there are sufficient places for children and young people with special needs and disabilities in the future.

Wiltshire Council says schools in the north of the county are already at full capacity and more space is needed to provide for at least an additional 70 pupils in this area alone by 2026.

Overall the north will need to build 150 places to meet the overcrowding situation in the schools there. The proposals are part of a county-wide solution to create an additional 220 spaces by 2026.

The consultation responses will now be considered before a report goes to cabinet for further discussion.

People were asked about options including developing a single school or two schools or developing/ continuing three schools in Chippenham, Trowbridge and near Devizes.

Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children’s services said: “I am really pleased so many people took the time to respond and we will be drawing all these responses together to create a strong proposal for the future.

“Our schools in the north are already full so it is important we act now. We are committed to providing significant investment so we have sufficient places available in classrooms which provide a supportive environment that helps our pupils to enjoy school and thrive.”