Cash boost to College of West Anglia revamp plans

A council leader last night pledged to commit �1.5m towards a re-vamped College of West Anglia, as part of a �6m investment in the future of the Fens.

As Fenland Council met to set its budget for the coming financial year, its leader Alan Melton said: 'This is not just an exercise in spending our reserves but an exercise in investment.

'The aim of tonight's budget is to improve the quality of life for all of us in Fenland. We will invest the council's assets in projects that all of us will benefit from in the medium to long term.'

Mr Melton said talks were under way with other partners to fund the proposed rebuilding of the College of West Anglia.

Education chiefs hoped to build new campuses in King's Lynn and March, to increase the number of degree courses on offer in West Norfolk and the Fens.

But the Learning and Skills Council turned down a bid for �100m to bankroll the scheme last year. Sites had already been earmarked and plans prepared. Mr Melton, who told councillors Fenland's �1.5m was 'an initial contribution', threw down the gauntlet to other potential investors.

'We have been talking to other partners with a view to resurrecting the scheme and seeking other sources of funding,' he said.

'The challenge to others is quite simple. We are prepared to commit this large sum of money, now it's over to you.'

Also included in the �6m is �2m package of new industrial estates in Wisbech, where unemployment is 40pc above the national average, and a new leisure centre and doctor's surgery for Chatteris.

The EDP understands discussions about similar support are under way within West Norfolk council. Both authorities see the college campuses as being central to up-skilling the local workforce and making the area more attractive to companies looking to relocate.

Meetings have taken place between the college and potential partners, but last night the college declined to comment.