Don't Move Darras Hall First School

Recipient: Northumberland County Council

Letter: Greetings,

Save Darras Hall First School - Don't Move, Improve ! Comments

Name Location Date Comment

Angela Brown Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 I strongly believe moving the school will effect families and local business. United Kingdom A first school in the centre of Darras Hall is what the community wants but what the commumity needs.

Amanda Affleck Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 Under no circumstances should the school be moved. Yes a new school would United Kingdom be nice but on the exsisting plot that the school is on at the minute. I believe travelling to and from school if it were to be moved would become an absolute nightmare. There are already traffic problems in and around Darras Hall this would just create total gridlock. I think the council should be working closer with the local community and the parents governors of the school to come up with a suitable soloution that meets everyone's needs.

Carly Clark Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 Darras hall first school is on a fantastic plot and has history! Yes the school United Kingdom could be updated but not moved. Mrs C Clark.

Rebecca Bunting Newcastle upon tyne, 2015-11-16 We moved earlier this year to be close to a school we could walk to and be part United Kingdom of a community, this would not be the case if the schools location was moved.

James Bunting Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Quite frankly with the information we currently have this appears to be a stupid Kingdom decision that ultimately puts the education and well being of very young children at huge risk. The same young children that as adults we are supposed to protect and educate. Do not move the school.

Allison Hull Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 Common sense should prevail. Improve not move. United Kingdom

Georgina Fogarty Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 Improve don't move. United Kingdom I strongly agree that this school needs to stay and continue its fantastic efforts with our future children.

harriet curson Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 The school is fantastic where is it and how it is Kingdom

John Bunting Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I strongly object to the relocation of an outstanding school because it fits in with Kingdom Nothumberland County Council's planned rape of Ponteland

David Lockie Berwick upon Tweed, 2015-11-16 We have a grandchild at DHFS and two more to follow. We worry about their United Kingdom safety at the huge industrial-type educational institution that is proposed. We also object to the environmental consequences of a large number of children who can walk or cycle to school being made to go in cars. (I can't think many parents will want to put small children onto a bus to go to such a daunting place.)

Raymond Banner Maghull, United Kingdom 2015-11-16 I am a very concerned Grandparent and can see the stupidity of the planned development.

Liam Cusack Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 It's ludicrous moving a school 2 miles away where 3 years olds will be sharing Kingdom a site with 18 years olds

Elaine Stroud Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I'm signing because the proposals to move the First School are crazy, Kingdom unworkable and must be stopped

Anne Thomson Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 To site children from 4 yrs together with 16 yr olds is inconceivable and United Kingdom inappropriate on both parts ....in addition to the obvious bottle neck of traffic that will inevitably occur Name Location Date Comment

Mark Phillipps Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 This school is excellent and my childrens current place of education. This Kingdom school is central in darras hall, although development is needed moving this to rotary way will only result in additional congestion from parents having to use vehicles to take their children to school. The current site has sufficient space for building on the field a new school and then using the current site for state of the art playing facilities for the children to use during school time, and the local community on evenings and weekends.

Gwynneth Watchman Durham, United Kingdom 2015-11-16 I have seen the benefits of the present location for our grandsons' access to school.

Rebecca Craig Morpeth, United Kingdom 2015-11-16 A school should serve its local community, primary children should be able to walk to school not need to be driven by parents this is a very both a socially and environmentally poor planning decision

Brenda Jeffers Newcastle, United 2015-11-16 I do not think the children are going to gain anything at all from this proposal Kingdom

Johanna Dubois Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Darras Hall First School is an integral part of the community. The ability for Kingdom children to walk to school is priceless. The location also enables parents to meet and so increases the feeling of community within the estate.

Alix Olds Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 This school is fab - just improve the building don't move - I believe little ones Kingdom should not be mixed with middle and high school

Beverley Kelso Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I don't believe there is a need to move the school, yes improvement is needed Kingdom but relocation isn't! Keep DHFS at the heart of the community.

Stacey Edmondson Darlington, United 2015-11-16 I am signing because I have friends who's children go to this school and the Kingdom proposed changes are rediculous.

Ekta Gulati Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 The school needs to stay where it is. New site would be terrible for first school United Kingdom children. None of them would be able to walk to school. jane Bradley Newcastle upon Tyne 2015-11-16 It's rediculous moving sites. Traffic is bad enough as it is now . Moving the Tyne & wear, United school will make this a hell of a lot worse. The school is in the heart of darras Kingdom hall . Yes it needs improvement but not moving sites. Build a new one in the same grounds . My daughter used to go to prevent school at darras hall 1st school. It's a lovely school will not be the same moved

Mark Young Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 It is not in the best interests of the pupils and the community to move the Kingdom school.

I anita Foster Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 There is absolutely no justifiable reason, educational or otherwise, to move this Kingdom school. Doing so will create insurmountable problems, and will destroy a community.

Merle Lewis Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 Its an unnecessary evil to move DHFS. United Kingdom

Phil Hoffmann Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 This decision will affect the education of the youngest members of our United Kingdom community, have a detrimental economic impact on local businesses on Broadway. Create traffic problems in and around the school and wider local area. I am totally against this action and feel it is driven by monetary gain in relation to the value of the land that the school sits on.

Helen Jeavans Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 I have friends with children at the school and it is not a positive move in so United Kingdom many ways that it is a mystery what the potential benefits will be to the children and the community-as usual something guided by finance rather than anything else-ridiculous

Jacqueline Jackson Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 The site is perfectly viable for enhancement or a complete re-build United Kingdom Greenbelt land should be kept as such Name Location Date Comment

Andrea Hallissey Chester, United Kingdom 2015-11-16 Both my grandchildren attend the school. To move this vital hub off the community 2 miles from those it serves makes no sense. Young children deserve to stay children and enjoy the freedom that cones with it. Grouping all ages in one vacility will not be the best option for these young impressionable children

Elise Harrison Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I went to this school and as a former student, I can definitely say that this Kingdom school is definitely the heart of the community. With so many memories it would be devastating for it to be moved. As a student of Ponteland High School, I can definetly say that it's no place for younger children below the ages of 13, yes it is also an amazing school where we learn things that can help us in life, however even though you'd like to think it, unfortunately the school is not an area where young children should be. I think it would cause a lot of anxiety for the younger children and it's not the type of atmosphere I'd like my younger siblings to be in. I personally think you should just improve DHFS and rebuild the Middle School and High School on the Green Belt as two different schools. karen carden Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 This will cause traffic mayhem yes the schools need improvements but not new Kingdom builds. The school will no longer be in the heart of the village, no educational gain whatsoever !!! If such funding is available improve current sites

Kelly Todd Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Darras Hall First School is placed at the heart of the community it serves. Kingdom Moving it will be to the detriment of the children, the community and local businesses too.

Christine Wood Callerton Lane, United 2015-11-16 Traffic will be mayhem - this will disadvantage all of Ponteland - the schools Kingdom can stay where they are as can the sports centre - we are a village with village infrastructure. There would be so many problems not just traffic and schools

Donna Scott Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Primary school children should be able to walk to school in the heart of the Kingdom estate and not be amongst middle and high school children!

Grace Carden newcastle, United 2015-11-16 I don't think it is right for young children to be attending school with 18 year Kingdom olds who will pick on the,

Alan Mee Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 NCC have demonstrated to me that public opinion counts for nothing where Kingdom building is concerned. Just look around Ponteland at new build and yet, no improvements to aspects of infrastructure. I refer to medical facilities, roads, drains and sewage. We are only being considered for a new school complex because of the 'rich pickings' due to the subsequent release of the former school land and the number of highly priced houses that the released land can take. I want upgrades to all aspects of infrastructure BEFORE any further development.

Lois Daniel-Black Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I live in darras hall I don't support this Kingdom

Ruth Hamilton Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 The County Council's proposal is preposterous in that it lacks sustainability and Kingdom may cost more than it saves in the long term. No consideration has been given to the health and welfare of the children or the community as a whole in moving schools and leisure facilities to a site that is effectively outside the village.

Catherine Dodd Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Because the plans are unworkable. 4 year olds should have a local school to Kingdom walk to, and shouldn't be on the same site as 18 year olds.

Julie Mountain Alresford, United 2015-11-16 An outstanding school with a proud tradition of learning in and around its Kingdom community. If it ain't broke, don't fix it!

Mary Liddell Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Firmly agree with all points raised in the introduction. Logistics & having 3 year Kingdom olds on the same site as 18 year olds is sheer madness. Name Location Date Comment

Anne Dawson Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 My grandchildren attend this wonderful school Kingdom

Mary-kate nicholson Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Relocating Darras Hall First is totally unnecessary and will be no benefit Kingdom whatsoever to the children within this community! Surely the main focus here should be the children!!

Caroline Cabourn Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I feel that the school should not be moved for a number if reasons. Kingdom

Helena Turner Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Moving DHFS to a location so far from the community it serves makes no Kingdom logical sense. There are no benefits to the local community, the only benefit is to NCC who clearly wish to sell off the land to make money. I truly hope NCC will listen to and respect the wishes of local residents as after all we are the people who live here.

Sarah Bocking Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 DHFS is an absolutely fantastic school, not least because it is at the heart of Kingdom the community which it serves. Moving the school would NOT serve ANY benefit to OUR CHILDREN!

Julie Dunn Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 These little ones need their own space and security. Also the shops need the Kingdom footfall of people coming to and from school.

Neil Middleton Letchworth, United 2015-11-16 I'm signing because my niece and nephew will be affected by the proposal. Kingdom

Katie Donnelly Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 It will not improve the education of our children Kingdom

Jenn Nielsen Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 I think it's wrong to put 4 yr olds in the area as 18 yr olds United Kingdom

Kate Wintrip Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 A huge and imposing campus for small children is at such odds with the Kingdom supportive and nurturing environment the current 'outstanding' first school provides and that young children need. As a resident I am appalled at the thought of further traffic mayhem to this small town as parents of ~2,000 pupils attempt to access the site twice a day. I am further dismayed that you would choose to invest in a huge school complex and leisure facilities on a known flood plain, further exacerbating the issue.... What is the point of playgrounds and pitches which flood or cause surface flooding elsewhere? What a disappointing and misguided proposal!

Marise Moat North Shields, United 2015-11-16 This would be a disgrace this school has outstanding results. Why do councils Kingdom feel the need to break something that works.

Louise Campbell Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 The school is an integral part of the community and needs to stay where it is. I United Kingdom can't see how these young children are actually going to benefit!!

Ggandeep Kaur Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 I'm a mum United Kingdom

Ruth James Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 Darras school is the focal point for the community. Everything this petition Kingdom refers to needs to be taken into consideration.

Bev Wears Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 Bigger isn't always better. Value the excellent school we have and improve its United Kingdom facilities.

Farhana Ahmed Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 The school is an amazing asset to the local community. United Kingdom Name Location Date Comment

Catherine Goode Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 Teacher at the school United Kingdom

Heather Wilkinson Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I want my children to have a good safe education, not to be caged in a complex Kingdom

Derek Simpson Consett, United Kingdom 2015-11-16 My granddaughter attends the school

Leigh Smart Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 My children go to both darras hall first school and ponteland middle. I do not Kingdom want my year 1 havingb o go to school with year 9-12. Darras schools site is perfect for a first school easy walking access, perfect location. Why can the council not just rebuild instead of relocate... listen to the parents, staff, governors, darras hall civilians no one wants this school to move. It would also have a huge financial inpact on the local business if the school was too move.

Anne Simpson Consett, United Kingdom 2015-11-16 My granddaughter attends this school.

Joanne McShane Gateshead, United 2015-11-16 Having lost our school in Felling, I know the hurt and negative impact that Kingdom closing and relocating this primary school will bring. Councils should recognise the negative impact on these young lives and the wider community.

Kiersten Shield Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 The traffic implications United Kingdom

Kiersten Shield Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 My daughter attends the school. I'm concerned about very young being on the United Kingdom same campus as older children, traffic implications, emotional well being of the children and safeguarding of the children.

Daphne Smith Newcastle upon TYne, 2015-11-16 There is no logic in this plan. It would result in horrendous transport problems United Kingdom for the vast majority of the children and the money would be better spent on improving existing facilities.

David Stroud Dubai, United Kingdom 2015-11-16 Schools should be a fundamental part of a community. Moving it removes that part of our life. rashida ahmed Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 The primary school is in the perfect location. To put all 3 schools together is United Kingdom unapporiate.

Kim Hoffmann Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-16 It is absolutely ridiculous that such a blatant act of corruption should factor in United Kingdom the decisions being made that will affect my children's futures. The current site of the first school is ideal and appropriate for a school. The shops on Broadway help form the community. The middle and high schools are also located ideally within the village. Parking and congestion will always be an issue in what is an over populated conurbation and noone would argue that each of the 3 schools require significant modernisation. However, to even suggest educating 4 and 18 year olds in such close proximity and further, suggest they should share facilities, not to mention the inclusion of a public leisure facility on one site is an absolute disgrace. Who will be making the money from the new houses I wonder? Which individuals will walk away with heavy pockets? It's not even like we need more housing in the area. Just walk along one street in Darras Hall and you will a handful of plots or vacant homes. Or is the idea to build affordable housing? Affordable to who? Greedy landlords? Maybe it'll go full steam ahead like Ponteland First and Richard Coates and someone will realise late in the day that actually, keeping a 3 tier system is actually not a bad idea? lisa heron Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 This is a ridiculous proposal which stops the whole joy of allowing our children Kingdom to walk to school!

Simon Ramshaw Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 I went to Darras Hall First School when it was Runnymede First School. I feel Kingdom that it gave me a fantastic start in life, and it sets the standards a young person needs, to develop as a human being both personally and professionally. This is part of the history of Darras Hall, and I strongly believe it should be part of the future! Name Location Date Comment

Hazel Mole Ponteland, United 2015-11-16 The council's only reason for moving this school is greed. It will sell the land to Kingdom some developer who will build huge houses and make a huge profit. Leave the school where it is, in the heart of the community

Carolien Woolnough Lye Green, United 2015-11-16 I cannot see how a school with children from 3 to 18 can work. I have friends Kingdom with children at this school for whom it would ha e an enormous affect.

David Walton Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 This is not just an issue for DHFS pupils but everyone in Ponteland. 2300 kids Kingdom being driven to school every day - carnage and environmental suicide. Aren't we supposed to encourage our kids to walk but expecting them to trek to the furthest corner of the village is ridiculous. Another example of NCC using consultants who don't know the village to dream up yet more ways to trash a fantastic place to live. SEND THIS TO EVERYONE IN YOUR CONTACTS NOW!

Amanda Cassidy Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 My children all attended DHFS and we were able to walk to and from school. Kingdom Had it been where it is proposed I would have had no choice but to drive. Barmy idea!

Debbie Johnson Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 I'm signing this because the traffic in Ponteland at school times is already Kingdom ridiculous without unneccessarily moving the first school and adding to the problem.

Paul Weatherburn Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 Little ones need a school that is handy and walkable. It's location is perfect. Kingdom

Andrew Slater Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 The proposed location for the new first school is on the edge of the community, Kingdom will require more car jorneys, kill off Broadway shops, young children should not need to mix with sink senior children and the shred facilities are a poor replacement for the current offering.

Nicola Kelly Newcaste upin Tyne, 2015-11-17 Absurd, serves one sole purpose - to achieve economies of scale for NCC. But United Kingdom entirely disregards, everyone/everything else; the children, families, teachers, local businesses and the community. The message is clear; Improve, Don't Move. david styles Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 The proposed re-development site is inferior to current school facilities and Kingdom siting. There is adequate space for a redevelopment of this community school within it's existing boundaries. The children and parents of Ponteland do not want the new schools redevelopment.

Heather Banner Formby, United Kingdom 2015-11-17 Schools should remain part if the local community. Don't break something that is working so well.

Antony Wren Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 Antony Wren Kingdom

Raymond Banner Maghull, United Kingdom 2015-11-17 Don't change what all ready works for what looks like a profit making scheme that does not benefit the local community.

Steven McNulty Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 Don't agree with moving the Darras Hall school, as it is central to the Kingdom community and by moving will have impact on the local shops.

Claire Thompson Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-17 I feel this is the wrong decision putting property's before young children and United Kingdom there overall happiness it's disgusting. Name Location Date Comment henry tonner Glasgow, United 2015-11-17 this is a great school in an excellent location,i have one grandchild who has Kingdom been a student there one who currently is and a third who should be attending next year.

Rachael Lawson Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 I have been a Darras Hall resident for the past 36 years whose 3 children ( now Kingdom all grown up) attended DHFS. To move this school to the proposed new site has got nothing to do with improving the children's education and facilities and everything to do with the council receiving a very large payout from the building companies involved

May Jurowska Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-17 The current site is convenient for parents and children. United Kingdom

Richard Moller Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 As a looking resident who is starting a family the concerns raised in the petition Kingdom ring true with me. I would not want to send my child to a school with 3-18 on the same site and the current school is conveniently located for the population it serves

Andrea Chapman Harpenden, United 2015-11-17 I'm an ex student of Greenlee, PCMS and PCHS and I believe the school Kingdom should be based where its children live - in Darras Hall. It's really important for these young children.

Claire Long Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-17 I believe children within a catchment should ideally be able to walk to school; United Kingdom something the current site provides

Kellie Butler Australia 2015-11-17 Our cousins live in beautiful Ponteland and we love the beautiful village atmosphere!!

Richard walton London, United Kingdom 2015-11-17 Ponteland doesn't need the homes that would be built, does not have the services or infrastructure to cope with the traffic that would result and it would inevitably result in increased pollution, inconvenience to parents and detriment to the health and education of children. Moving schools out of the community is simply ridiculous.

Janet Conroy Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 Our children have wonderful schools in the heart of our community just in Kingdom buildings in need of improvement, don't throw the baby out with the bath water.

Rachel Kirtley Ponteland, United 2015-11-17 DHFS is based on an ideal site and is close to many of the pupil's home's. Kingdom When I attended the school we used to cycle there and back but if the school was to be moved then this could no longer happen.

Nicola Johnson Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 i want a local school that children can walk too. The relocation means it will be Kingdom impossible for young children to walk to school - they will have to be taken in a car. Traffic around the current schools site is already very busy and this is going to make the situation worse. The current site of the school is the hub of the estate and should remain.

Paula Gates Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 The performance and reputation of DHFS is exceptional.A contributing factor in Kingdom this is its location and its place in the centre of the community. I fear the council are putting financial gain before their educational responsibilities.

Richard Wafer Liverpool, United 2015-11-18 Supporting my friends child's education Kingdom

McVey Andrea Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 The council are ripping the heart out of our community. I have lived in Darras Kingdom Hall for nearly 40 years, with both myself and my children attending local schools.

Amy Brown Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-18 My friends little boy attends here. United Kingdom

Thomas Donnelly Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 The proposal is an affront to the residents of Darras Hall and should be Kingdom vigorously opposed. Name Location Date Comment

Linda Black Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 I don't agree with the junior school being with the older children - also I think Kingdom the bad traffic at present will be even worse. Linda

Urszula Kleśna-Carr Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-18 I support my friend!! United Kingdom

John Cornwall Newcastle upon tyne, 2015-11-18 I am signing because I do not believe there is justification to move the school to United Kingdom the new site off Rotary Way and that it would be better to improve the current facilities.

Lynda Walton Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 the school is situated in a central position within ponteland. Putting it on the Kingdom outskirts where it is difficult to walk to will create huge traffic issues. Also it is not a good idea to put all of the schools on one site. It will cause excessive noise and traffic problems.

Tony Walton Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-18 Because this is motivated and driven by fiscal gain rather than what is right and United Kingdom in the community's best interest.

Colin Dakers Newcastle upon tyne, 2015-11-18 I think that the school should stay where it is, and be extended or rebuilt on this United Kingdom land, with an onsite car park built in to address parking issues. Many children will still be able to walk or scoot to school!

Valerie Spencer V, United Kingdom 2015-11-18 The school is presently in the middle its catchment area thus enabling most of the children to walk to school .Why move it so that it is very inconvenient for most of its pupils some of whom will be then up to 3 miles from their local school.This would force many more parents to drive their children to school or force Northumberland county council to provide buses for them.this would be far from ideal as the children are aged only 4-9 years .some may even be able to claim for a taxi ! on what grounds could this be seen as of benefit to the local children .

Adrian Bint Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 I totally agree with all the points made in the petition. Kingdom

Carol Ancrum Wallsend, United 2015-11-18 It's important to the children, and the other option would be by a dangerous Kingdom road

Rachael Storey Cramlington, United 2015-11-18 I'm Signing this because I work in Ponteland and the traffic is already a Kingdom nightmare down Callerton Lane so if you add another school there it will be even worse, especially with parking.

Pat Ford Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 Children need to be able to walk safely to school. Nothing wrong with current Kingdom site

Lesley Eltringham Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 I prefer th3 school at the heart of the estate and not out on the periphery. The Kingdom children's education should come first , not a very expensive piece of land!!

Sheila White Newcastle upon tyne, 2015-11-18 The children should remain in their present school within walking distance of United Kingdom the majority and on a single serviced site not miles away with at least 2,500 pupils and all ages on the same site. Madness!

Simon Tappin Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 I'm signing this petition because I strongly object to these proposals. Kingdom

Jane Thirlwell Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 I'm signing this petition because I think Darras Hall First School should remain Kingdom at the heart of the community it serves. This enables many children within that community to walk to school should they wish and is a vision which should be encouraged. In addition I don't agree with the first school being on the same site as schools which serve older children. The pupils at the first school are very young and their childhood should be protected. Children should be at the heart of this decision. Name Location Date Comment

Ian Bolton Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 I believe the proposal will not only have a negative impact on the education and Kingdom all round development of the children but also because of very obvious traffic and environmental issues. Name Location Date Comment

Daphne Smith Newcastle upon TYne, 2015-11-18 Dear Sir/Madam, United Kingdom As a resident of Darras Hall, parent of former pupils of Darras Hall First School, Middle School and High School and former Headteacher of a large first school in Northumberland, I would like to voice some of my concerns about the threat of re-location of Darras Hall First School and to demand that NCC looks at alternatives.

Firstly, there will be tremendous problems getting to and from the new schools for parents and pupils. The proposed location is on the periphery of Ponteland at least two miles from the homes of over half of the pupils.

This is obviously a retrograde step and will increase the already excessive volume of traffic around the schools. I envisage traffic chaos with parents queueing for spaces, children arriving late. There will be worrying health and safety hazards with little opportunity for parents to take the children to the door and see them in, and out, of their classrooms safely (as is current practice). It is directly against government policy to encourage walking to school, which is beneficial to the health and well-being of children and young people. Furthermore there will be virtually no possibility for parents and school staff to interact informally, an essential element in children's successful early years at school.

The current location of Darras Hall First school is in the heart of Darras Hall.

School re-location will strip a thriving local community of its main place for social interaction. Providing opportunity for social interaction is vital in maintaining and developing healthy, sustainable developments and communities and is part of national strategy. Re-location will inevitably be detrimental to the shops along Broadway.

Furthermore, I have a number of concerns about the wider proposals for Ponteland, for example:

As one of very many regular daytime user of the Leisure Centre Sports Hall and swimming pool, I am concerned that access to these important facilities will be limited to the general public. Currently schools have their own sports halls. If the Public Library is moved to the new campus, this will result in a great loss to the village centre of its library and services particularly for those residents who don't own cars and cannot easily reach the new campus. The number of new houses planned is unrealistic and out of proportion, with apparently no plans included for appropriate increase in infrastructure.

I believe that the Council has failed to sufficiently consult and engage with the community.

I am unclear exactly what the proposals are, given the limited information and the spasmodic way in which it has been released, even after searching on council websites. The council must show that it has investigated all alternatives and demonstrate their reasons for ruling them out. The council does not appear to have properly investigated any alternative solutions for any of the Ponteland schools in maintaining them on or much nearer to their current sites. They could have offered us countless viable schemes of greater community value and new housing proposals much more in scale and sensitive to the existing area. The entire process of communication and engagement of the council with the local community has been ineffective and confusing.

I demand that the council consults and engages properly with the community and looks at alternatives before embarking on this potentially disastrous enterprise.

Yours sincerely,

Daphne Smith Name Location Date Comment

Alexis Cairns Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-18 Moving DHFS to the proposed new site will have a huge negative impact on United Kingdom transport in the area. The school is perfectly fine where it is so why change it?

Doreen gordon Newcastle on tyne, 2015-11-18 I live in Ponteland and the village is gridlocked with traffic for the Ponteland United Kingdom schools morning and night. Additional cars coming in from Darras Hall would cause even more chaos.

Julie Braney Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 There is no need to move schools- improve what we have. Kingdom Traffic problems will only be worsened by new proposals. New school design proves to be a health and safety risk- up to 2,300 children using one access road. Poor planning of actual building and use of surrounding land. No room for expansion. Pupils will not be able to walk long distance to school with two or three heavy bags. Therefore they will have to be driven! Grave concerns about wide range of ages using the site.nursery to year 12 all using same access. Multi use of buildings- have you actually asked any teachers about this design? Safeguarding issues! This whole plan needs a rethink- but involve the people of Ponteland with it. Plenty of room to improve on the actual Callerton Lane site. Leave Darras Hall First school in Darras Hall- spend some money on the school. It's service users pay rates too. What about the voice of those in Ponteland and Darras hall?

Ruth Foster Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-18 There's no need to do this and it's not beneficial to the children. United Kingdom

Ami Walker Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 There is no need to up lift and move a school that has been there for years. Kingdom Also children should not be merged together from 3 years to 18. The change through tears is beneficial to the child martyn webster Campbell, CA 2015-11-18 This is yet another ill-thought out proposal. Communities are the soul of life and modern ife has eroded them enough without moving the heart of a community 2 miles away. Madness.

Sandra McGovan Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 School should remain at the heart of the catchment area and community it Kingdom serves. Children and their education is not a commodity to be traded.

Alan McGovan Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 I have seen no justification to support this relocation and NCC have not been Kingdom clear on it's plans for the site. Children and their education should not be sacrificed for short term commercial gain. NCC needs to stop wasting money such as moving headquarters to Ashington!!Darras Hall First School should remain at the heart of the community it serves.

Alexandra Robson Newcastle, United 2015-11-18 I used to go to that school and know others who attend now and would be a Kingdom shame to move it.

Alan Atkinson Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 The proposed destruction of the current ponteland schools is vandalism on a Kingdom massive scale anne nesbitt Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 We need to keep the first school in the middle of the community and encourage Kingdom children to walk to school.

Neil Douglass Ponteland, United 2015-11-18 It's a great school, don't move, improve! Kingdom

Jacqueline Watson Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-18 I believe that we need a first school on the estate that is central for everyone to United Kingdom be able to walk to. Name Location Date Comment

Roger Holmes Wakefield, United 2015-11-18 As a grandparent who often walk my grandchildren to this school I strongly Kingdom object to these misguided proposals.The present school is in an excellent location at the centre of the local community enabling most children, parents and guardians to walk to and from school. I think every effort should be made to retain DHFS on its present site.

John Blundell Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-18 There is no need to ove the school. United Kingdom proposals do not solve any issues only creating bigger ones. Traffic and parking issues at Rotary way will be wosre than any in Ponteland. The DHFS is obviously deignated for housing yet undisclosed im th Core Strategy Travelling distances to rotary way unrealistic, when DHFS alray central. Do not fix what is not broken. There is nothing wrong with the existing site, but everything wrong with the proposal to move. Why dismantle a good school.

Kathryn Gluyas Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 There is no reason to fix a wheel if it isn't broken. Why increase road traffic by Kingdom relocating an already successful school?

Richard Gates Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 Darras Hall First School is at the heart of the local community it serves and we Kingdom live 200 yards from there meaning our 2 young children can walk to and from school each day. Moving the school near to busy roads will cause many problems including local traffic congestion. I'm also not happy with the thoughtful my 2 young children walking into school next to teenagers each day. The whole proposal is wrong and disruptive.

Janice Miller Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 I think the school is important to the community and economy in relation to the Kingdom businesses on Broadway

Janis Grainger Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 having been a retailer on the broadway for 14years we have been part on the Kingdom school community , this is part of darras hall. We have been involved in their first day of school and all their celebrations,. Relocation of DHFS will be a detriment to the community and to the retailers of the Broadway,without the school we will not have a business, which will inturn be a loss of jobs , shops to the elderly.

Ian Chapman Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-19 I wish for my daughter to attend this school United Kingdom

Robert McLean Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 This plan proved that The Council have no idea what they are doing. Kingdom

Lisa McNulty Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-19 dont agree with one site for a three tier system. Totally defeats the point of United Kingdom having 3 tiers!

Kiran Khawaja Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-19 My two children goes to Darrashall First school and I don't want to move school United Kingdom but to improve

David Blakey Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 Fundamentally, the children will be WORSE off and that has to be the bottom Kingdom line Name Location Date Comment

Elaine Flynn Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 As a mum of two young boys we have recently moved into this area for the sole Kingdom purpose of getting into the catchment area for this school-particularly due to it's reputation, ofsted reports and convenience (walking distance) for school drop offs and pick ups. I myself am a teacher so I am well aware of the importance of sending your own children to a school you believe in...this trust does not come with a new school!!! It's all very well saying the council acknowledges the increase of distance and will provide free transport but in reality how many parents would happily put their 3, 4, 5 and even 6 year old on a bus with the possibility of only one or two adult supervisors per group of children?! The increase of traffic is going to be very detrimental to the area and when truth be told there is no academic reason (pupils make good progress, the school has easy access, outdoor space, good room sizes etc) for the move and surely this is the main focus of a school?

Beverley Cornwall Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 Totally in support of the opposition to the proposal to relocate Darras Hall First Kingdom School.

Melanie Hurst Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-19 My son goes to DHFS and don't believe the school should be moved United Kingdom

Simon Cornwall Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 This was my first school in the late 80's and forms part of the heritage of Darras Kingdom Hall. Why change something that has worked so well for so long and continues to be one of the top schools in the region...??!!!

Jacqueline Gardner Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 The council's proposals are utterly ill-thought through, impacting negatively on Kingdom our community, education environment and health. 'Consultation' has been a sham and we are being blackmailed - ie 'it's these plans or nothing' brian Spencer Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 There is no logical reason to move the primary school two miles away from the Kingdom centre of the village which is it's natural catchment area.

Barbara Leishman Newton, United Kingdom 2015-11-19 I went to this school in the 1960's walking to and from each day from home. Since then another 2 generations of my family have attended. My first teacher Mrs Slipper - a lovely lady who was the wife of a WWII ace pilot. The dear Mrs Anderson was a inspirational teacher loved by all. It is part of the beating heart of Darras Hall. Moving it would create the necessity of more traffic on the roads to transport children and all the environmental issues that involves.

H. Smith Ponteland, United 2015-11-19 This council proposal sounds similar to the sort of corrupt land grab that the Kingdom BBC is reporting on happening in Uganda in this article... http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-34860420

Diana Wood Swindon, United 2015-11-19 Schools need to stay local to the community. Kingdom pauline ramshaw newcastle, United 2015-11-19 l agree with parents,, Kingdom

Jill pearson Cape Town, South Africa 2015-11-19 the negatives strongly outweigh the positives

Janet Noble Lichfield, United Kingdom 2015-11-19 My friend wants to walk her son to school.

Allison Johnston Ouston, United Kingdom 2015-11-19 I believe my friend should be able to walk her son to an outstanding school, why change what is clearly far from broken!

Christine Ivison Washington, United 2015-11-19 It's ridiculous shuting a well achieving popular school !! Kingdom

Lisa Laughton Sunderland, United 2015-11-19 I want my godson to be able to walk to school with his mummy Kingdom

Karen Addison Washington, United 2015-11-19 This well loved high performing school should stay open. If it ain't broke, fix one Kingdom of the many that are. Name Location Date Comment

Gary Porter Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-19 My niece's have just started this School after moving to there new house & my United Kingdom nephews will also be going to this School as well when they are older,this school is a good school with a good outcome & fantastic exam results

Diane Richardson Peterlee, United 2015-11-20 My friends children will be effected and it seems ridiculous especially when it is Kingdom an outstanding school, when there are not many of those about.

Chris Atkinson Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 The school is and should remain at the heart of the community. Kingdom It is being argued that fiscally this is the only way to provide the facilities but the facilities already exist. Improve don't move

Viv Blair Edinburgh, United 2015-11-20 The walk to DHFS is an important part of building a school community. If you Kingdom take this away, you take away an important part of what has made this school so great. It is a perfectly placed site and maintaining a strong community at the heart of the area is essential.

Stacey Flack Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-20 I do not want my 5 year old son to be mixed with older children. It would be too United Kingdom intimidating for the younger children. Travel and congestion around the proposed area would be horrendous. Classroom sizes would inevitably increase as I doubt they would replicate the space that Darras Hall FS has.

Dominic Grace Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-20 The council has a duty to serve the needs and views of the constituent United Kingdom populace and there is overwhelming opposition to the proposed move. The school is nestled within the community currently and it should stay here. The surrounding small businesses would be significantly impacted by relocation of the school and the council equally has a duty to support these local businesses - Moving the school would be an indictment of these duties. Relocating the school(s) out would eliminate the options of walking children to school. The council has also not included these proposals as part of the wider core strategy in previous submissions, so the consultation period for this specific change has been woefully short - This is not acceptable to the residents of the area the council serves. If the NCC continues with these plans it makes a complete and utter mockery of the duty the council has to serve the views and needs of the tax-paying residents of the area.

Heien Paisley Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 Both of my girls will go to this school and it is within walking distance. To move Kingdom the school two miles away is taking it away from our 'village community' and it is of detriment to many local businesses of Broadway, and hundreds of families living in Darras Hall.

Rena Chopra Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 I'm against the school moving. My Daughter walks to school and will feel Kingdom anxious being around older children. I would have to arrange my working arrangements to be able to drop my daughter off by car to the new location.

Kathryn Cox Lanchester, United 2015-11-20 I went to this school so it has lots of memories for me. Many families live in Kingdom darras hall and the commute for some is within walking distance ... To move it two miles away will have an affect on this, the local community and businesses it is near by !

Emma McEnaney London, United Kingdom 2015-11-20 It's a ridiculous proposition that will cause mass disruption, increase traffic, and destroy beautiful greenbelt land. My family home will be affected should this go ahead. It's a brilliant first school, keep it where it is!

Deborah Barry Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 I believe primary schools should be in the heart of their communities, within Kingdom walking distance of homes and not have to be a car ride away.

Hermina ELY Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 I believe the relocation of the first school is bad for our children and directly in Kingdom conflict with the NCC's own Planning policies in terms of supporting Sustainable Developments, existing communities, scale of development and policies for release of Greenbelt. Name Location Date Comment

Karen Mackenzie-Crooks Prestwood, United 2015-11-20 I'm signing because my boys went there for 3 years before we moved down Kingdom South. A great school don't move it from it's current location.

Burrin Elizabeth Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 This school is the heart of the local community. The children are nurtured in a Kingdom safe and open environment, many within walking distance of their homes. I can see no valid reasonable argument to re locate the school to the proposed site except of course that one of a money making scheme for the developers and council.

Daniel Duggan London, United Kingdom 2015-11-20 Removing Darras Hall first school from the centre of the village would be a mistake. As would incorporating all 3 school tiers in one campus.

Alison Tomkins Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 We specifically moved into the area a year ago so our two boys could be Kingdom walking distance to their school. This will no longer be the case if it moves. We will have to drive and add to the congestion as it will be too far to walk. I also cannot imagine how a safe walking route will be created to the new school along Rotary Way which is a 60mph road.

Luke Tomkins Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 I like to walk my son to school and this will no longer be possible if it is moved Kingdom several miles away.

Laura Kelly Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-20 Why would you want 3 year olds in nursery/reception mixing in with 16 year old United Kingdom at the high school?? It's just going to cause the younger children to follow on with the older children's language and behaviour. The younger children as well are going to copy the behaviour and use that same behaviour throughout the entire school year even when moving from first to middle to high! I object to this move!!!!!!

Linda Gallon Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-20 This school is the heart of the community United Kingdom

Kevin Brennan Ponteland, United 2015-11-20 I strongly object to the project both in terms of the proposed plans and the clear Kingdom financial incentive rather than the interests of the children's educational and recreational interests

Michael Ward Coatbridge, United 2015-11-20 I strongly believe that schools are more than buildings. They are an integral Kingdom part of our community and should be protected and retained wherever possible.

Richard holmes Maltby, United Kingdom 2015-11-20 Ridiculous decision

Angus Bridges Wideopen, United 2015-11-20 The existing site has everything a school needs - there is plenty room - the Kingdom existing buildings require updating - spend the money on that rather than take away the core of the community

Shazia Rashid Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-20 My two children attend DHFS and I like where the school is situated and agree United Kingdom that it should not be moved.

Gemma Edwards Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-20 My children attend ponteland first school with my eldest child hopefully United Kingdom attending Ponteland middle school in September. I am vehemently against building on the green built no consideration has been given to schools, doctors, dentists, roads to cater for all these new houses which are completely without need. There has been no evidence to support this need throughout the One core strategy. This is just the final nail.in the coffin. Seriously who is coming up with these ideas. Do you have any idea about the areas and lives you are playing with here to no effect on your own lives?

Margaret Adams Australia 2015-11-20 The school is in the hub of Darras Hall

Amanda Stewart Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-21 It's madness to move a school away from the residential area is pupils live. It United Kingdom leads only to more congestion, pollution, childcare, and hassle in general.

Leigh Caven Forest Hall, United 2015-11-21 Leave it in the community ‼️ Kingdom Name Location Date Comment

Stephanie Mckenzie Whitley Bay, United 2015-11-21 Having been educated in a three tier system I understand the importance of Kingdom any first school and the impact it has on children's lives and educational progression.

Isobel Charleton Ponteland, United 2015-11-21 The current location of the school is in the heart of the community. Already Kingdom Ofsted rating as outstanding I cannot see how a new location could improve the school . Traffic problems will increase as the journey to school is to long for many children. Rotary Way is a dangerous road and has already had one fatality. There is no benefit for the children who will be intimidated by such a huge number of older children.

Laura Inglis Ayr, United Kingdom 2015-11-21 This happens all too often we need councils / local government to start planning better maintenance schedules. Mothballing buildings to build new isn't strategic burt morris Coatbridge, United 2015-11-21 we must fight for all communities. Kingdom

Gavin Bullick Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-21 Moving the school will damage our children's education and the community United Kingdom

Teresa Lawrie Airdrie, United Kingdom 2015-11-21 My Grand Children attend the school.

Amanda Williamson Ashington, 2015-11-21 These schools are part of our community! Northumberland, United Kingdom robert armstrong Ponteland, United 2015-11-21 I'm signing because the school does not need to re-locate out of area and I Kingdom walk my child to school sue duncan Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-21 The school is already where it should be -in the middle of the estate it serves. It United Kingdom is ridiculous to move it miles away -only a money greedy organisation trying to consume building and green belt land would try to arrange this against the best interests of the children, their families and the village as a whole community.There is absolutely NO advantage to this scheme and extensive disadvantages (including ludicrous traffic issues).Please don't go ahead with pillaging our community like this -you are meant to serve our best interests and going ahead with this scheme would definitely and may I say OBVIOUSLY not do that !

Claire Allan London, United Kingdom 2015-11-21 I attended this school and have many fond memories of all the great teachers here. Also loved being able to walk to school everyday.

Robert Hefford Ponteland, United 2015-11-21 It is a silly idea with no real benefits and will lead to considerable difficulties in Kingdom the future.

Kath Lynn bridlington, United 2015-11-21 I attended this school Kingdom

Jason Drummond Worcester, United 2015-11-21 I support all courses for children Kingdom

Fona Price Ponteland, United 2015-11-21 This local school is a fabulous asset to our community, providing a safe Kingdom environment for our children to develop. It provides an important social link for parents/grandparents/aunties and uncles, many of whom are also involved in the school run. The council are clearly only interested in selling the land and have not put the interests of the council tax payers first. Whist the congestion is an issue, perhaps the school could address this by highlighting all the health benefits of walking the short distance, the vast number of residents enjoy. Maybe a push on this going forward would gain more support from those in the community fed up with the poor parking and numbers of cars sitting parked with engines running. Name Location Date Comment

Neil Cardno Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-22 The proposals put forward by the council are completely insane. There is United Kingdom absolutely nothing in this plan which will benefit the children, parents or other residents of Darras Hall. I am highly suspicious that the Council simply wants to raise a lot of money by selling off premium building land in Darras Hall and Ponteland, but at the expense of the families who live there, and to the considerable detriment of the community at large. The Council are supposed to be there to help the community, not strip it of its assets.

Sally Allan Ponteland, United 2015-11-22 At present the school is at the heart of the community. The children have more Kingdom chance of being able to get to school either walking, by bike or even scooter - an on going government initiative. What could be worse for 4 - 9 year olds than being on a campus with over 2300 pupils. Our shops are well frequented not only by local residents but also parents etc of children who live out of area. It's important for the community that Darras Hall shops are well used and appreciated.

Rosalind Hinkley Ponteland, United 2015-11-22 NCC's plans do not make sense. This school is at the heart of the estate with Kingdom plenty of land to expand/improve. Moving to the new proposed site will be a retrograde step with disastrous traffic problems.

Suzanne Dunn Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-22 The school needs improving, not moving! United Kingdom

Helen Brasier Camberley, United 2015-11-23 Helen Brasier Kingdom

June Richardson Ponteland, United 2015-11-23 It is wrong that 4 year olds starting school should go on a site of more than Kingdom 2,000 which includes 18 yr olds. this area was designated for shops church and school when Darras Hall established . It will break up a community with detrimental effect.

Karen Andrews Tregony, United Kingdom 2015-11-23 Supporting family !

Leigh Bower Ponteland, United 2015-11-23 The upgrading of the current site has not been considered, a first school should Kingdom be part of the community not off a busy bypass with traffic congestion.

David Morgan Central District, United 2015-11-23 Quite simply, this is depressing. Every child deserves a meaningful and Kingdom enjoyable education in a warm and inviting environment, The children of DHFS are lucky enough to have that. It would be a moral crime to press ahead with this move. And for what? To sell the land for development? That immediate monetary gain, a myopic short-term fix for a depleted council budget, is of miniscule significance when put against the long-term welfare of future generations of DHFS children. A "super school" site made up of all age groups is a terrible way to go.

Claire Barnes Bath, United Kingdom 2015-11-23 Our beloved cousin William is a product of this wonderful school, and we want other local children to benefit from a great school start as he has. W

Phil Taylor Whickham, United 2015-11-23 My grandchildren go to this great school Kingdom

Steph Tulip Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-23 My neice and nephew attend this school and it would be more beneficial for United Kingdom them to remain where they are with children a similar age with upgraded facilities.

Julie McMonagle Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-23 This was my first school in a great place. Very fond memories. United Kingdom

Tom Mackley Levens, United Kingdom 2015-11-23 I used to got to school in Ponteland. The school should be in the heart of the village not shoved off into a flooded field at the edge!

Rosalie Chorley Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-23 My daughters went to DHFS and now my granddaughters attend the same United Kingdom school. Why move it, improve it. It's a great little school... Name Location Date Comment

Janet Dawkins Aboyne, United Kingdom 2015-11-23 My grandson attends this great school and i feel it would take the heart out of the area. I also feel it is important that the children can walk, bike or scooter to school - everyone is being encouraged to do more excerise especial youngsters this would not happen with the majority having a 2 mile more journey. Keep it please i think its great!!!!

Vicky Michell Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-23 Children should be able to walk to school and enjoy their first school years in a United Kingdom separate environment to older students.

Cheryl Jordison Gateshead, United 2015-11-23 Too many great schools are closing. We need to be investing & improving not Kingdom destroying and demolishing. alison brown durham, United Kingdom 2015-11-23 It was where I had my first job

Satwant Sodhi Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-23 Because school are very important in the informative yrs of youngsters for our United Kingdom future we need to invest in more education not less

Nicola Weatherburn Gateshead, United 2015-11-23 Moving the school is bad for the children, bad for the environment and bad for Kingdom the community.

Northumberland County Council need to put children before profit.

Alex russell Ponteland, United 2015-11-23 As a former pupil of this school I don't think it is at all appropriate for First- Kingdom school-age (3-8) children to mix with High School children (13-18).

Judith Scrivener Newcastle, United 2015-11-24 Family links with school Kingdom

Linda Parkin Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2015-11-24 Both my son and daughter attend this school and I feel it is in their best United Kingdom interests for the school to stay where it is. I have many many reasons for this!!!

Joanne williams Brighton, United 2015-11-24 I went to this primary school. Kingdom

Fiona Nicholson Ponteland, Newcastle 2015-11-24 I would like my child and others after me to walk to school upo. Tyne, United Kingdom

Kelly Skinner Ponteland, United 2015-11-24 Darras first is at the heart of our community - my children and I walk to school, Kingdom meet others along the way and the sense of togetherness we feel and the strength of our community ties are amazing. Take this school away and we are all individuals - not a community!

Janice Jolley Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-24 Children ought to be able to walk to their school wherever possible and in these United Kingdom days when childhood obesity and inactivity is a concern to government, this plan seems very ill conceived for this and many other reasons. Listen to parents and people in the community

Mary Newton Gateshead, United 2015-11-24 My family have just moved to the area because of school and location Kingdom

Tracey Murray Ponteland, United 2015-11-24 I don't want my daughters school moved. Kingdom

Julia Stevenson Ponteland, United 2015-11-24 I'm signing because the proposed location of the new site is too far away for Warrender Kingdom the Darras Hall and a big proportion of Ponteland village children to walk and I do not want to rely on transportation to get there! I do not agree with lumping the first school children in with the middle and high school children as they need to be on their own site and will do better in a completely separate school at this young age. I do not want to leave my kids at a drop off point as I need to be able to communicate with the other parents and teachers on a daily basis as I do now so good relationships and trust can be formed. Name Location Date Comment

Rachael Wilson Ponteland, United 2015-11-24 I have a son who is in year one at this school. I am very unhappy at the Kingdom prospect of this being moved to a "super campus". It is not appropriate that my son should be within a school with children upto the age of eighteen. Since he started at reception the school keep the older children separate to allow them to settle and gain in confidence. I believe this would be daunting and would have a negative effect on his well-being. In addition to this my second son attends the nursery setting of Footsteps to Darras Hall situated within the grounds of the school and to date no provision has been made for them should these plans follow through. I know a lot of parents who use the nursery as a wrap around care provider for example breakfast club and after club. This is easily accessible and involves no travel. I am also concerned about the local shops on Broadway as to what there future would be should the school move. Too many shops are closing nowadays especially the small independent retailers. And finally I am a disabled parent who can only imagine how hard it would be to park in the proposed site with 2500 students parents, staff and leisure centre members and the amount who will abuse the disabled parking. What excuse can justify moving an OUTSTANDING school when it is situated within a site that is large enough. joanne moffett Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-24 I support the need to keep this fabulous school as it is-outstanding and a happy United Kingdom place to learn

Grant Stevenson Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015-11-24 The estimated spend of 50 million to "improve" schools that already United Kingdom expectations is a waste of taxpayers money.

Claire Tams Bonnyrigg, United 2015-11-24 I have family and friends in Ponteland and know how much loved and valued Kingdom Darras Hall First School is. tracey sturrock Ponteland, United 2015-11-24 im signing because access to school difficult for children to get to arnt able to Kingdom walk roads will end up gridlocked local shops will end up closing

Katherine Welsh Ponteland, United 2015-11-24 I like in Darras. I have a child who goes to Darras Hall First School and a child Kingdom who will soon be going to Darras Hall First School. Please don't rip the heart out of our community. Improve, don't move our school.

Robert Lamplugh Nunthorpe, United 2015-11-24 the children are happy with the area and surrounding shops and trust the Kingdom people locally and would not like to change! (Jean Lamplugh wife of Robert who take the children to and from school sometimes and live in Nunthorpe near Middlesbrough.)

Sarah Alexander Enfield, United Kingdom 2015-11-25 Greenbelt land should be left "green". Not only will the land be developed but also there will be a huge rise in traffic and therefore pollution in the area if children are going to have to travel by car to get there.

Katie Gosling Newcastle, United 2015-11-25 I'm signing because this is a policy motivated by money-making not education, Kingdom and because it is not appropriate to have young children educated at such a huge site with so many older pupils. Name Location Date Comment lesley Maddison Ponteland, United 2015-11-25 We are a mobile childcare unit called Footsteps, based on the site of Darras Kingdom Hall First School and are of charitable status. We serve to offer a wrap around care service and Early years provider to children within the community and who attend Darras Hall First school...... We have had no contact from the council regarding the impact of this proposed move to our facility which I feel as the manager is disgraceful. The school site is at the heart of the community in Darras and I feel that to relocate it will be a total disaster. This impacts massively on the fact that children will not be able to walk to school as the distance to a lot of families will increase. Therefore this will add to the traffic congestion further as well impacting on the rights of children and their families to gain exercise whilst walking to school. The government are trying to decrease the risk of lack of exercise and the increase of obesity within the younger generation. This choice of being able to walk to school will be taken away if this relocation goes ahead. I feel to build a new school facility where Darras Hall First school stands is the best option all round!

Isabel Jeffers Haslemere, United 2015-11-25 I don't think a massive school is suitable for a child just starting school life. It Kingdom seems foolish to disrupt a school which has such a good OFSTED report. It seems even more foolish to move a school out to the fringe of the community it serves, preventing those who currently can get to school on foot from doing so. There is no argument put forward that this proposal will benefit the children which school plans ought to be..

Adam Stephenson Ponteland, United 2015-11-25 I'm signing because we selected and bought our new home in Darras Hall in Kingdom July 2015 precisely because it is walking distance to the school. We intend to build a family in this area and the school was one of the main attractions. Darras Hall first school is also an important part of the community dedicated to the education of young children providing a rich and fertile ground for education, learning and integration between children and parents who will naturally share in conversations about their kids. It is a dedicated facility, completely separate from any other organisation or educational facility for older children and teenagers which is an advantage. Lastly, this is an excellent school and if it 'ain't broke don't fix it' for the sake of making money, disrupting the community, disintegrating family connections, whilst also not paying any attention to the people of Darras Hall who pay a lot of money in council tax. This is a money making exercise pure and simple, and prioritises short term financial goals over much more important meaningful community and educational values and principles. I see no other reason why this school would be moved, but the consequences of liquidating democratic values, banishing community feelings, and disrupting the lives of families and children who have bought their homes near to this school will be pernicious and degrading to the North East and its people. I expect better from our regional leaders, who should raise hope and expectations, not destroy them for the sake of filling the coffers. If our northern leaders think that replacing Darras Hall first school with McDarras Hall is a positive step, then we need to go one step further and remove those leaders.

Teresa Lawrie Airdrie, United Kingdom 2015-11-25 My Grand Children attend and I would like to help save their school!!

Kate Clay Ponteland, United 2015-11-25 It is the centre of a community, I went there, without it shops will suffer, children Kingdom will need to be driven to school instead of walking.

Colin Archet Wetherby, United 2015-11-25 I went to this school, and it should stay where it is. Kingdom