SOUTHEND Council is searching for a contractor to take on a £650,000 contract to complete the construction of a new “autism base” to provide extra support for children at a Leigh school.

The new building at Blenheim Primary School, off Blenheim Chase, would feature two new classrooms, changing rooms, a sensory room and a quiet area away from the main school building.

The £650,000 contract would help turn the building into an “autism resource base” with work aimed to be completed by August 15, 2025.

Contractors have now been told to register their interest for the contract online before September 4, with procurements set to be conducted electronically.

Councillor for children, young people and SEND, and Blenheim Park ward councillor Laurie Burton, emphasised the importance of the project and how it could provide children with special needs the “best chance of success.”

He said: “In recent years, we have seen an increase in young people with autism diagnoses in Southend. It is vital these young people get support as early as possible.

“The extra investment at Blenheim Primary school will allow children to get extra support at an earlier age, meaning they stand the best chance of success in future stages of their education.”

The school is part of the Learning in Harmony Academy, which includes Greenways Primary School and Temple Sutton where similar buildings have been created.

Speaking to the Echo in April, Trust executive leader for special educational needs and disability (SEND), Ashley Eastwood said the new resource base would accommodate and provide support for up to 12 children.

The location of the new build is set away from the noisier parts of the playground and the sensory room will give children the option of using a calming area away from the main space.

Initial plans that were submitted for the site earlier this year described it as a “highly sustainable” and “high quality” development.

Mr Eastwood said: “We are pleased to be expanding our SEND provision and providing even more children with autism in the local community with high-quality and bespoke support. The new resource base already provides support for a number of children and will accommodate up to 12 children when the building opens.”