WORK on the new pupil referral unit for students outside of mainstream education is on course.

The facility, to be at the old Rise Carr Primary School, is due to open in March next year.

Members of Darlington Borough Council's children and young person scrutiny committee heard an update on the progress of the unit at their meeting in the town hall yesterday.

Work started in July. So far, rooms have been stripped out and preparation work for the renovation and extension has been completed.

A site meeting reported progress was "satisfactory" and on timetable.

A budget of £2.4m has been approved for the project.

Residents have pushed for the building to be available for use by the community. Requests have included a direct path from North Park.

A report from Murray Rose, director of children's services, stated: "There is still not enough certainty in the budget to confirm whether the addition of a path could be accommodated.

"The issue will remain open for further consideration until a decision can be taken."

The report said further discussion about community use will take place once the new head is in place.

Maxine Hepple, a headteacher at a pupil referral unit in Northumberland, was appointed in July. Alistair Ormand, a senior teacher at a pupil referral unit in South Tyneside, has been appointed deputy.

The report added: "Both Maxine and Alistair are looking forward to engaging with the local community."