COLLEGE staff have been told 53 jobs are at risk across several departments because of financial difficulties caused by the ambitious development plans.
Lecturers' union UCU last night held an emergency meeting to discuss its reaction to the news and it is anticipated a 'save our college' campaign will be launched.
Some elements of the college's redevelopment have gone ahead, including a motor vehicle centre and a sports hall. A £10 million loan was taken out to help pay for those buildings and the demolition of the Old Mill Lane block.
That loan has already racked up £540,000 in interest that needs to be repaid and as a result the college announced a wide-ranging 'restructure' which will be completed by the end of July. This has put 53, out of 227, jobs at risk.
The picture shows college prinicpal Colin Booth on the college roof.
