PLANS for a new sixth form centre at a County Durham school have been submitted.

Officials at Barnard Castle School say they will use money raised by the development of part of the grounds, off Green Lane, for 70 houses to pay for the new complex.

If approved, the centre will be incorporated into the main school buildings and will require the demolition of the existing kitchen staff changing area and store room and alterations to the school uniform store.

According to a supporting planning statement, the complex will allow sixth formers to remain an integral part of the school while enjoying their own space and facilities.

A public consultation event into the scheme, held at the school last summer, resulted in overwhelming support for the location and design of the centre.