Plans for new Worthing College site welcomed (From The Argus)

Plans for new Worthing College site welcomed

7:15am Tuesday 7th June 2011 in News By John Keenan, business editor

Plans for a new site for a college have been welcomed.

During a three-day event held last month, nearly 500 people came to view the Worthing College relocation plans and to share their thoughts at joint venues in Bolsover Road and Hill Barn Lane.

Worthing College is planning to move into the former Norwich Union headquarters in the town.

It wants to redevelop existing buildings to create classrooms, restaurants and coffee bars, an arts centre and a gym at the 18-acre site at The Warren, off Hill Barn Lane, Broadwater.

The development will be partly paid for by the sale of the college’s current site, in Bolsover Road, near Field Place, for housing. More homes would also be built at The Warren.

College bosses hope that by moving to the proposed site, the college will be able to offer a learning environment for students and staff that is fit for 21st century education.

They say the 18-acre location will provide good-size teaching rooms, extensive outdoor space, sports pitches, and access to the South Downs and space for future expansion.

Nearly 93% of those who have responded so far gave full or qualified support for the scheme.

Principal at Worthing College, Peter Corrigan, said: “We are delighted at the response we have received from the local community.

“The interest and support they have offered is invaluable and we appreciate every comment received, as all will prove useful in informing the final planning application.”

In recent years Worthing College has grown and now has 1,700 students – including international students from China, Europe and Brazil – and 230 staff.

In total 487 people attended the exhibition while 210 comments have been received so far with 114 people saying they support the combined proposals for the relocation of Worthing College.

Among issues raised were traffic concerns around the Grove Lodge roundabout.

Mr Corrigan said: “We would like to offer our thanks to everyone who attended the exhibition and welcome any further comments from the local community.”