Rory deserves more - you could describe it as a special needs ghetto - I want him to mix with mainstream children

Debbie Evans, mother

Ninety three pupils aged between three and 19 are educated at Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn in Denbigh, but one worried mother has described it "as a special needs ghetto".

The students at the school have autistic spectrum disorder, ranging from people with no speech or language through to very gifted youngsters with social difficulties.

Sioned Bowen, Corporate Director of Lifelong learning in Denbighshire, said: "The proposed school would provide inclusion, support and a bilingual education for autistic children."

"The proposed location has been chosen so that the pupils of Brondyffryn and Denbigh High School could share IT and technology facilities and involve the pupils further in the local community. "

The fight for a new education and residential centre has been going on for more than three years.

Denbigh residents are in favour of the scheme

If councillors approve the scheme the new school will be built behind Denbigh High, and will cater for 56 youngsters from throughout north and mid Wales along with parts of Cheshire.

Debbie Evans, who has an 11-year-old son at Plas Brondyffryn, believes the time is right to move on.

"It was never built as a school, it is an old country mansion - we've got children being taught in old country dairies.

"Rory deserves more - you could describe it as a special needs ghetto - I want him to mix with mainstream children."

There has been very little aggravation between our children and their children and we look forward to having the secondary children on site

Gwyn Dodd, Denbigh High School

If appoved the project will lead to the integration of some teenagers with youngsters from the local comprehensive.

Eight children with autism are taught at Denbigh High School already and Headteacher Gwyn Dodd says they mix well.

"The response has been very positive, we've had a good relationship with Plas Brondyffryn for many years," he said.

Mr Dodd added: "There has been very little aggravation between our children and their children and we look forward to having the secondary children on site."

Terrible state

It is hoped that following the secondary school, a primary will be built near a similar school in the town.

Ms Evans said moving had always been the preferred option: "The site wasn't big enough to re-develop and integration was a key part of our campaign.

"The buildings in a terrible state - it has had a leaking roof amongst other things and a more modern building would be easier to maintain."

However, the proposal has met with criticism from Denbigh Town Council.

They have expressed concerns regarding the access road from Park Street to the rear of the high school.

The council wants some kind of traffic calming measure put in place so people can pass safely.

In the meantime parents and governors at Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn have set up a trust to raise money for residential facilities in the town and a parent centre for those with autistic youngsters.