A FORMER Darlington school could reopen as a centre for youths who are no longer in mainstream education.

Rise Carr Primary, in Eldon Street, closed in July. Darlington Borough Council has unveiled proposals which, if approved, would see the old school become home to the pupil referral unit (Pru) and Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) services.

The plans will come as a blow to residents, who hoped the listed building would reopen as a community centre to benefit both young and old.

The North Road Community Partnership had submitted two letters to the director of children's services, Margaret Asquith, outlining the residents' wishes.

However, the council's cabinet members are expected to discuss the possible relocation of the Pru and EOTAS services to the school, at a meeting on Thursday.

Community development worker Morvyn Sanderson said: "We wanted the school buildings to be used by community groups, with a large emphasis on youth activities.

"We have consulted people and questionnaires have been put through every door in the ward, so we know this is what residents want.

"We are aware of the council's proposals and, even though the council has suggested there may be some scope for community use, people will be disappointed.

"It's not that residents will be worried about having the unit in their area, as we know it has worked very well elsewhere.

"It's just that residents had their hearts set on the site being used by all the community and not just by one specific group of people."

Chairman of the partnership and local resident, Steve Jones, said: "I just hope the council consults the residents and keeps them properly informed. People are more likely to respond to it positively if they know exactly what is happening."

Currently, the Pru unit and EOTAS services work from premises in McMullen Road, Yarm Road, Gladstone Street and the former Eastbourne Nursery School site.

The services work with youngsters who are no longer in mainstream education for a variety of reasons, including those who have been expelled from their schools.

Council officers said that the services could be much improved if they were housed under one roof.

In a report into the relocation, officers say the move could lead to higher GCSE performance, improved attendance rates and better behaviour.