Open space takes root

Lessons for a small number of expelled children have already been taught at the Flintstone Centre for the last three years or so but plans to convert the building mark a more permanent move to the town and traders fear an influx of unruly youngsters.

The proposed pupil referral unit, as the facility is known, is the result of a partnership between West Sussex County Council's youth service and its out of school learning team and would be used by children from across the south.

A grade II listed building built in 1878, the Flintstone Centre was originally a school but has for many years been used by a number of youth and community groups.

It is unclear at the moment how these groups will be affected and whether any may be forced to find new homes.

Focusing mainly of Key Stage 3 pupils, aged 11-14, who have either been expelled or are at risk of being expelled, the unit would include classrooms for art and craft, science and a computer suite.

These subjects would be taught alongside sessions with qualified youth service professionals on anger management, health issues and youth justice board regulations.

Some of the children would be brought by taxi to the unit but others would arrive by public transport.

John Stevens, chairman of the Littlehampton Traders' Partnership, said: "These are children who basically have not been able to be kept in any conventional educational establishment.

"If it comes to the point that there are large quantities of unsuitable children going through the streets and possibly acting in an anti-social manner we would be very upset indeed.

"It's not the sort of thing that's going to enhance Littlehampton."

One of the Flintstone Centre's main halls would be converted to create the classroom spaces and the children would also be able to sit exams at the centre.

In the proposals put before Arun District Council for comment, it is estimated that there will be 102 full-time places at the unit but other more flexible part-time places would also be available.

The computer suite would be made available to the youth service out of the school hours to be used by the parents or carers of pupils at the unit.

Arun Council can make only observations on the proposals. The final decision, which lies with West Sussex County Council, is expected by June 14.