There are just a few days left for people to air their views on a proposal to build a new secondary school at Moreton Hall in Bury St Edmunds.

Plans for the high school for 11 to 16-year-olds at Lady Miriam Way follows Suffolk County Council’s decision to move to a two-tier system of education for most of the region’s schools.

Pre-planning application consultation ends on Wednesday.

Clive Springett, a town councillor for Moreton Hall and a father-of-two, said there was “without a doubt” a need for a secondary school on that side of the town.

“I think that’s one of the things the residents here cannot get to grips with – why we have to send our children to the other side of town to attend an upper school.

“The fact it will be brand new facilities as well will be an added bonus.

“And if the sports facilities are open for the residents in the evenings, that’s a win-win as well. I think when it goes up that will cut down on traffic across the town.

Hopefully the local children will be able to walk there and that will be absolutely great.”

While Mike Bacon, a committee member of the Moreton Hall Residents’ Association, believed the majority of people there are pleased at the prospect of the new high school, there are some issues that need to be resolved.

He said it is understood the community will be able to use the sports hall and gym, but it is unclear whether they will have access to the playing fields.

Trevor Beckwith, a county councillor for Moreton Hall, is also keen to ensure the community are not short-changed when it comes to sports provision.

Sarah Stamp, cabinet member for leisure, culture and heritage at St Edmundsbury Borough Council, said it was “just too early” to map out who would have access to what sports facilities and when, but the consultation would help to inform that.

“I am very committed in my borough council role as portfolio holder to the people of Moreton Hall getting access to community leisure facilities,” she added.

Mr Bacon said he also had concerns around traffic in the vicinity of the school.

Lisa Chambers, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, said: “I strongly urge all those who have an interest in these proposals to view the plans feedback their thoughts.”

To view the plans and comment online visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/consultations

Comment forms can be returned to the Schools Infrastructure Team, Suffolk County Council, FREEPOST RTAC-HSKL-CSAY, Ipswich, IP1 2EB.