A new learning centre for young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) could open in the old Wokingham library.

The vacant building on Denmark Street closed in September 2022 after the library moved to a new location at Carnival Place.

Plans released by Wokingham Borough Council show it could be reopened as a post-16 SEND hub for up to 40 young people by September 2026.

This would address the ‘immediate and pressing need’ for post-16 provision as the number of children with specialist needs is on the rise.

There are currently 393 16–25-year-olds on an Education and Health Care Plan in the Wokingham Borough.

READ MORE: Farmer's Protest: Berkshire MPs show support in London 

The council is forecasting this will rise by 22 per cent by 2028 based on current levels of demand for all age groups.

The centre will support young adults with autism, moderate learning difficulties and social, emotional and mental health needs who ‘fall between the gaps’ between mainstream and specialist provision.

Learners could receive core lessons in English and Maths as well as relevant vocational training and independent living skills.

Supported internships with local employers would be available, with the aim of transitioning to apprenticeships or full-time employ

It would be run by up to three local education providers and will reach capacity by 2028.

READ MORE: Thousands sign petition for The Acoustic Couch 

Mixed learning and training at the centre would ‘encourage more young people in Wokingham with SEND to become economically independent’.

There is currently ‘limited’ offers for post-16 provision within the borough, causing the council to spend large amounts on sending students to neighbouring Bracknell and Reading.

Providing more spaces within Wokingham would save the council around £1 million a year, an executive report says.

Wokingham Borough Council overspent by £1.83 million last financial year, with the largest amounts on children’s services and adult social care.

The authority must make some £28 million in savings over the next three years, as council bosses warn it faces ‘unprecedented financial challenges’.

READ MORE: Priestwood laundrette blocked from becoming takeaway over obesity concerns

Two more SEND schools are being planned for the borough, which will offer 120 places for children and young people.

Both are proposed to be in Rooks Nest Farm, bordering Barkham and Finchampstead, opening in September 2026.

Executive member for children’s services Councillor Prue Bray said: “Using the old library means that it is ideally placed for transport links and for students to have access to a range of different employers, while at the same time maintaining the site for community use.”