Read more: College to close ahead of Ofsted report

NEWHAVEN MP Maria Caulfield says the decision to close UTC@harbourside is 'a blow' for the town.

But she says there may still be a long term future for the college.

The announcement was made at noon today.

Ms Caulfield told The Argus: "It is disappointing that the decision has been made to not continue with the new intake of students for next September.

"This will come as a blow to both students and staff.

"However I am optimistic that the college does have a long term future.”

Read more: College to close ahead of Ofsted report

She says she is in discussions with the Deptartment for Education to change the UTC model to one predominantly focused on post 16 education.

She said: "This has been where both student and employer demand has been greatest. I am actively engaging with ministers to ensure that the decision today will not result in the long term closure of the college.”

“UTC@harbourside is a beacon of hope, not just for the aspiring young people who were shaping their futures there, but also for the progress of regeneration in Newhaven.

“That work will go on, but now the partners must work to provide the students with a clear pathway for their on-going education and for members of staff at UTC, new opportunities for their on-going careers.

“I am in constant contact with all the key local decision makers and I will do everything I can to ensure the future of the college.”

Read more: College to close ahead of Ofsted report