High staffing levels and the creation of a secure base meant that the unit will not disadvantage other pupils at the school

Keith McDonagh, Flintshire County Council

The condition, which often manifests in "eccentric behaviour", can led to difficulties with communication and relationships.

Previously, pupils with Asperger have had to travel 15 miles to a specialist school in Denbigh.

County councillors believe the new centre, earmarked for Argoed High School at Mynydd Isa in Mold will provide a more cost effective form of education.

Children with Asperger's are often of average or above average ability and with appropriate support can successfully follow national curriculum subjects.

Keith McDonagh, Flintshire's director of education and childrens' services, said the new unit had been designed to meet the needs of local children.

Youngsters attend Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn

It will also mean substantial savings in transport and placement costs at Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn in Denbigh.

"This new resources facility will allow them to have their very special needs met in a mainstream setting within Flintshire," he said.

"High staffing levels and the creation of a secure base means that the unit will not disadvantage other pupils at the school."

Mr McDonagh says it will provide more effective education for the pupils concerned than is currently available within the county.

Expensive placements

Mr McDonagh said: "Many children with Asperger's have allied language difficulties.

"They could access the language support in the school."

Research suggests children with Aspergers' syndrome tend to cope in primary schools but rapidly decline in secondary school settings, unless they have considerable support.

Savings that will be made on expensive out-of-county placements will be reinvested into the service.