THE only dedicated school in Newport for youngsters with special needs could be expanded to take an extra 50 pupils if plans get the go-ahead.

Newport City Council is planning on expanding the size of Maes Ebbw School, which operates across three sites in Maesglas, Brynglas and Eveswell and is open to children aged from three to 19, from 100 to 150.

Although it currently has space for 125 pupils, it is already over-subscribed by 26, with the number of spaces needed predicted to continue to expand.

Now the council is planning on expanding the overall number of spaces by 50, with cabinet member for education and skills Cllr Gail Giles for due to sign off a proposal to launch a consultation on the plans at the end of next week.

A council report said: “The extended school will provide a variety of different rooms in order to meet the varied and specific needs of all pupils.

“The actual size of a classroom suitable for a group of pupils with special educational needs is difficult to determine as this will depend significantly on the level of individual need and will include requirements in relation to staffing and specialist equipment.

“It is possible that the needs of individual pupils will vary on a year by year basis and the layout of the school therefore must be able to accommodate this.

“The school grounds are attractive and support access to safe and secure outside playing areas, including the proposed sensory courtyard.

“The grounds are laid out in such a way that prevents pupils being able to leave the site and finding themselves at risk.”

The move is predicted to cost about £3.5 million, or £74,468 per extra pupil place.