THE controversial relocation of a Darlington primary school moved a step closer yesterday, after the borough council's cabinet approved the plans.

Alderman Leach Primary School is on the verge of being moved to the new West Park development, in the Faverdale area of town.

But objectors are expected to meet soon to discuss ways of maintaining their opposition to the transfer of the school.

Members of Darlington Borough Council's cabinet gave their approval to the £2.9m development yesterday.

Parents and residents in the area voiced their anger at the plans at a public meeting last month. They argued that youngsters would face a dangerous walk along the busy West Auckland Road, which has a 40mph speed limit at the West Park end of the road.

They also condemned the council for what they believed was a failure to consult properly over the scheme.

Cabinet members gave their unanimous backing to the project, insisting it was the best possible option.

Councillor Eleanor Lister, who holds the education portfolio, said: "There are always concerns when you change anything in the education world, but this is excellent news for Cockerton and I sincerely hope the residents will look at it that way."

A comprehensive travel plan, outlining safety measures for children and parents travelling to the school, will be drawn up before any move.

The authority said it had looked at various options, including rebuilding on the site, but found that relocation was the most viable.

Public consultation found 70 per cent of parents who responded were in favour of the plan.

Parent Caroline Houghey, a member of the Cockerton Area Action Group, criticised the council last night, saying: "They just did not want to know about anything we suggested and I think that upset a lot of people.

"We felt the meetings that they held were purely so they could say they had discussed it with the public, when it was actually a foregone conclusion."

The proposals are subject to approval from the Department for Education and Skills.