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Preston College misses out on building cash
Four North West colleges have been shortlisted for a share of a multi-million pound buildings booty - but Preston is not among them.
The city's 90m redevelopment project has been put on hold because of a massive black hole in Learning and Skills Council funding.
The ambitious project has been given the green light by city planners and was on course to be completed in time for the 2012 Preston Guild.
Only 13 projects from across England have been selected from more than 180 projects submitted, working towards securing funding from a 547m pot.
College bosses in Preston have no idea when funding will be available but principal Willie Mills says he is optimistic.
He is adamant that Preston's bid to become a world class college will not hinge on its buildings.
Working with the Northwest Regional Development Agency, the Learning and Skills Council says it had to pick colleges "That will have the greatest impact for learners, employer's and communities."
Mr Mills said: "The first college projects to be selected were always going to be those colleges in direst need. Some have already had buildings demolished, indicating they were not fit for purpose. Others faced financial ruin if their projects did not start soon.
"In comparison, Preston College plans focus on building for the long term future of the college and its students. The buildings we currently have compare well with many other colleges and meet the immediate needs of the college."
He added: "We do however, have longer term aspirations of Preston College students, and have high expectations of achieving our goal of an iconic college building in the near future.
"In the meantime Preston College will continue to focus on delivering high quality education and training that meet the needs of students and employers.
"Our aim of becoming recognised as a world class college is not dependent on new buildings, but will be delivered by our outstanding staff."
Steven Broomhead, chief executive at the NWDA said:
"The NWDA has worked really hard to get the best return for FE facilities in the Northwest."
He added: "Understandably a number of colleges will be disappointed , not to be selected, however I would like ensure those colleges that we will be working closely with them to identify actions that will enable projects to move forward to the benefit of learners and communities throughout the whole of the region."
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Weather for Preston
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light sleet
Temperature: 2 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 0 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: South east
