Mountains Country House, previously home to an independent school until its closure earlier this year, has been sold by Savills on behalf of Patramus Limited to special educational needs provider Witherslack Group.

Witherslack Group is set to sensitively refurbish the Grade II listed Victorian building to allow for its future operation as Hilden Park School. The school is set in 28 acres of parkland and woodland in the village of Hildenborough. Local authority funded placements will be available. The catchment area is Kent Council and surrounding areas.

Stuart Jones, development director at Savills, says: “We are pleased that in securing the sale of this historic building, it will remain an important community facility, providing much-needed SEN provision in Kent.”

Witherslack Group operates 29 schools and are the leading provider of specialist education for children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs, communication difficulties (autistic spectrum disorder; Asperger’s syndrome; speech, language and communication needs), ADHD and complex learning needs.

Mark Bowes, Commercial Director at Witherslack Group, says: “We are delighted that the sale has gone through. Hilden Park School will open its doors in March and will cater for up to 90 pupils with special educational needs between the ages of 8-18. The opening of the new school will also create 60 new jobs.”