PLANS for Swindon's academy have gone on show to the public.

Visitors to Pinehurst Junior School, in Beech Avenue, yesterday and today were able to see a 3-D model and images of the controversial academy, and the initial response was positive.

David Neal, the project manger of the academy, was pleased to see so many people eager look at the plans.

He said: "We're looking for as much feedback from the community as we can get.

"Some of it will be good and some bad. There may be things that we can work on or not but at least if we are listening we can convince people we are doing the best we can.

"I spoke to most people over a year ago and they were totally anti it.

"Now a very large proportion is with us and asking how quickly it will be done.

"There's always a few who are pessimistic but on the whole most are with us and can see the benefits."

The plans can be seen between 3.30pm to 7.30pm today at the school.

The council says all views given about the design will be considered before any planning application is made. It is due to go before the council's planning committee at the end of February.

Martyn Baker, the United Learning Trust's national education adviser and the project manager for Swindon, said the academy needed the input of the community.

"We want people to see how this project is shaping up," he said.

"We want them to comment and give us feedback so they can inform our decision making in the future.

"This is a project for the community and we want to make sure they feel ownership."

The academy will cater for pupils aged from four to 19, while a new Sure Start facility will be available on site for younger children.

Different age groups will have their own entrances, recreation areas and separate break times.

Cheryl Stiggers, 38, of Spruce Court, who has two children, Kiera, four, and Jason, nine, said: "So far I'm for it. I asked some questions and some of my concerns were answered."

Caroline Tilley, 39, of Doris Archer Close, Pinehurst, has a five-year-old son, Tyrese, and she was keen to see what his future school could look like.

"I'm in two minds still," she said. "My son will be coming to this school and Pinehurst is really good so I don't want them to knock it down but I want to know what's happening. It's good that they're hearing our views."

Coun John Bullman (Lab, Gorse Hill and Pinehurst) added: "As a councillor I would ask anyone interested to have a look. They will see what's being planned for their children's future."