A special needs school in Hextable is set to close but councillors have recommended that education continues on the site.

Furness School in Rowhill Road is expected to shut at the end of the academic year but it has been agreed that consultation should begin into its use by another special needs school.

If approved, existing Furness pupils would be included on its roll.

A report to Kent County Council last week recommended it “consider and endorse or make recommendations to” the education and health reform cabinet member on the decision to discontinue Furness School, with closure from August 31.

This was approved by members, as well as the consultation process beginning into Broomhill Bank School in Tunbridge Wells using the site from September 1.

KCC said Furness School had a £1.6 million budget deficit and “insufficient demand” from parents.

It has also failed to make good progress in improving the quality of education since being graded as “requires improvement” by inspectors in December 2013.