THE CITY college has had a troubled recent history.

There seemed to be a lack of control with students and parents going through a worried period, staff sometimes telling The Argus they feared for their jobs and their students’ courses.

So Nick Juba had a lot of work to do when he arrived in September but he has steadied the ship.

We are impressed with the way he has been open and honest and the way he has handled the situation.

Today’s news may well be a reduction of more than half for the redevelopment plans.

But something had to give.

When the City College was going through tougher times the question on everybody’s lips was “how can they be planning such a huge project at a time of such turmoil”.

But the discontent has certainly gone quiet since Mr Juba took over.

And, anyway, a £36 million project is still a huge investment and represents fantastic news for the city.

The City College is such an important part of our city and our youngsters rely on it as a springboard for their careers.

This was highlighted when The Argus was inundated with calls during the struggles. Parents and students were left in limbo for a worrying spell but under Mr Juba that has all changed.

If we let our youngsters down we are in trouble, not only as a city but as a nation. During the economic crisis there were fears that job prospects for a generation were being lost but places like City College have given them a lifeline.

There are now great signs that this will continue and improve.