LIBERAL Democrats have hit back after being criticised for speculating about the future of Darlington College of Technology.

The party has recently distributed questionnaires to people living near the college's Cleveland Avenue campus suggesting plans are being considered to move it to a new site at Morton Palms, off Yarm Road.

But the college described the leafleting as "somewhat premature" in a letter it sent to residents.

Principal and chief executive Sarah Farley said: "All colleges have been required to draw up an accommodation strategy.

"Our strategy incorporated a review of all our premises, including the main site at Cleveland Avenue."

But Brian Fiske, chairman of Darlington's Liberal Democrats, disagreed that they had jumped the gun.

He pointed out that the college, residents, businesses and the council needed to be made aware of public opinion before any decision was made.

He said: "We do not feel the leafleting is a premature move. Too often people are not contacted until after the event.

"It is important to gather the information and sound out the public now to influence a decision that will have an important impact on residents."

Mr Fiske said a number of completed questionnaires had been returned both supporting and objecting to the move.

A feasibility study into the proposed relocation is currently being carried out by consultants and results are due in September.