PLANS to build a specialist teaching unit for children with autism have been given the go-ahead.

The Designated Special Provision (DSP) centre, at Kidbrooke School, Corelli Road, Blackheath, will open in September.

The centre will enable children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder to be taught separately from mainstream classes.

The DSP centre is the fourth to be introduced at schools in the borough since 2000 but is the first specifically for children with the disorder.

Cabinet member for lifelong learning Councillor Angela Cornforth said: "This allows schools to be inclusive yet focus on pupils with special needs."

The centre, which will be created through a small extension to the ground floor of the school building, was approved by council planning bosses on February 14.