A brand new half a million pound autism centre has opened.

The facility, in Highbury New Park, will support people who have both learning difficulties and are on the autistic spectrum.

Called the Daylight Centre, it has been accredited by the National Autistic Society and is “low arousal” – meaning it can assist those with autism cope with their sensory sensitivities, including a sensory room and a soft play area.

The Highbury building’s design also features curved walls, neutral colours and non-flickering lights.

Cllr Janet Burgess, Islington Council’s executive member for health and wellbeing said: “These facilities are state of the art and will make a huge difference to autistic clients and their families - affording service users a degree of independence and choice.

“We hope the service will become the ‘gold standard’ that other councils aspire to in supporting residents with special needs.”