A THIRD of Wirral’s biggest further education college is under threat of closure, it was revealed last night.

Wirral Metropolitan College, which has three sites, has said “analysis of students’ needs” has led it to believe it should concentrate on the Birkenhead locations.

That is leading many to fear the closure of Carlett Park in Eastham, which currently has more than 2,000 students.

The proposals have already been attacked by leading political figures in the area who said they believed the south of the borough was overlooked in comparison to the north.

But in a statement, the college said it has “an opportunity to secure a multi-million pound investment to benefit the further education needs of Wirral people”.

The statement said: “To secure this opportunity for Wirral, the college has committed to create a world class further education (FE) college which could open its doors as early as 2011.”

Liberal Democrat candidate for Wirral South Paula Southwood said the college’s position raised “deep concerns” about Carlett Park’s future and highlighted concerns about using the site for housing.

She added: “While recognising this brings extra money for education into Wirral, the major concern in south Wirral is the extent of educational provision in this area.”

Last night a spokeswoman said they were at “very early stages” in consultation on the plans but analysis so far pointed to “a two-site solution in north Wirral and business case for provision in south Wirral”.

She said: “We have explored a range of options, and have been looking at where people live and work and where they travel to learn, as well as those who should be in further education and the transport links and infrastructure.”

She said there was “an exciting opportunity to secure investment for Wirral”.

College principal Mike Potter said: “Wirral Metropolitan College has a long-established history that has supported generations of Wirral people.

“This unique opportunity will enable us to create a world-class college facility that will serve many generations to come.”

The college has around 16,000 students in total, some 6,000 of which are part-time or work placements.

The Conway Park and 12 Quays sites in Birkenhead have 4,612 and 2,781 students respectively, with 2,321 at Carlett Park in Eastham.

However, the college said only 15% of students at Carlett Park travel from within three miles.

Wirral South MP Ben Chapman said the decision by the college to focus on north Wirral was “disappointing”.

liammurphy