Cannock college campus plea in wake of closure
Cannock’s college campus, which closes tomorrow, should play a key role in the future of the town centre, an MP has said.
Teaching will stop at the South Staffordshire College campus amid financial pressures, just four years after it underwent a £6 million refurbishment.
The closure has been described as a ‘betrayal’ and ‘incredibly disappointing’ and leaves Cannock without a further education establishment for the first time since the 1930s.
Pupils who were on courses at Cannock are being offered free transport to the college’s other campuses in Penkridge, Lichfield and Tamworth.
College bosses say they will keep a ‘staff presence’ at the campus at The Green throughout the summer to help with any inquiries.
Amanda Milling, Conservative MP for Cannock Chase, has now called for the site to be at the heart of a regeneration of Cannock town centre.
She said: “Given the level of investment in the campus, it is essential that any future plans make the very most of the excellent digital facilities there, and, given its position in the heart of Cannock, the plans for the site need to be part of a wider regeneration plan for the town centre.”
She added: “This is an incredibly disappointing situation we find ourselves in.”
George Adamson, leader of Cannock Chase District Council, described the closure as a ‘betrayal’ when it was first announced back in May.
Graham Morley, chief executive of South Staffordshire college, said: “Supporting the local area has always been one of our main concerns, and there are a number of potential ways the site can contribute to the community. We have always had a very co-operative relationship with the council and will continue to work alongside it to find the best solution for Cannock."
