EDUCATION chiefs have rejected criticisms of a £2m plan to transform a former primary school in Darlington.

Last week, Darlington Borough Council revealed proposals to bring Rise Carr Primary School, in Eldon Street, back into use.

The authority was keen to reopen the school as a centre for local youngsters who are no longer in mainstream education.

It wanted the building to house the pupil referral unit and Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) services.

The idea initially sparked criticism from residents, who were keen to see the listed school building revitalised as a community centre.

Liberal Democrat councillor Fred Lawton, who represents the North Road ward, launched a stinging attack on the authority's policies, on Thursday night.

At a full council meeting, he questioned why Rise Carr, which closed in July, had been selected as the location for the centre.

He said: "The reason is not to provide the staff who deal with these children with the best place - the reason is financial.

"The education department seems to have been instructed by the Labour group to concentrate on making money, rather than educating children.

"What about the Beaumont Hill complex? The education department doesn't appear to have looked at the best location to give children the best start in life."

But Councillor Lawton's comments were condemned by Chris McEwan, the cabinet member for children's services.

He said: "Rise Carr closed because of its falling rolls.

"My advice is that this is the best use of a building that we can't demolish because of its special status.

"There is good potential for community use, so what Councillor Lawton is saying is 'I don't want any community use here'."

The proposal was supported by a majority of councillors and £2m of capital funding will now be released.

The pupil referral unit and EOTAS services work out of premises in McMullen Road, Yarm Road, Gladstone Street and the former Eastbourne Nursery School site.

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

Yesterday, a council spokeswoman said: "We have considered what the community asked for and tried to be flexible in the design and use of the new building.

"We will continue our negotiations with the community about their use of the building."