THE proposal for a new school on the site of the North Kingston Centre is ill-conceived.

There are several reasons why this proposal is flawed.

First, Grey Court School already serves the needs of both Richmond and North Kingston communities and is, as your article acknowledges, a much improved school.

It has a large site, which makes it ideal for expansion.

Second, the impact of increased traffic on an already-busy road seems not to be sufficiently acknowledged.

Third, the consultation exercise carried out by Kingston Council neglected to include Ham residents (who are under the jurisdiction of Richmond Council) and the latter includes myself as a concerned parent with two children.

I would welcome a formal statement from the leadership of Richmond Council and an undertaking that a more strategic and cross-council debate will occur regarding secondary school provision.

It does seem that there is an ideal opportunity to consider making Grey Court School a place which serves the needs of the local community - both Ham and north Kingston residents.

PROFESSOR KLAUS DODDS Dukes Avenue

Richmond