Dudley College open to talks on at-risk Coseley School site

Dudley College could be involved in the future of the Coseley School site if it was to close, it has been revealed.

College principal Lowell Williams confirmed leaders had been contacted to see if they could help in the event of the school closing.

He also said the college would be 'pleased to enter discussions' over alternative uses for the site. Parents have been infuriated by plans to shut the school, which has 528 pupils, and have launched a campaign to try to save it. A petition has gained more than 1,000 signatures.

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A consultation has been launched over the future of the school. Council bosses could face a financial deficit of £1 million by August 2017 amid falling pupil numbers.

Among options being considered is a phased closure of the school in which pupils in years 7,8 and 9 would be moved, with those in Year 10 staying put.

Mr Williams said the college had 'long-standing links' with Coseley and was considering what it could offer.

Wolverhampton University said it was not currently involved with the situation but 'from an educational point of view would always offer support if it's needed'.

Mr Williams said: "The college has, informally, been asked to consider what support, if any, we could provide to the community if the school were to close. No detailed discussions have taken place. No plans, of any sort, have been drawn up.

"However, the college has clearly indicated its willingness to enter into such discussions. In developing any future plans the college's key aim would be to support the community of Coseley.

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"The college is aware that the number of school-aged young people in the Dudley borough will recover from its current low numbers and, should Coseley School close, in the future additional school places may well be required.

"The college would be very pleased to enter into discussions to consider the feasibility of developing new school provision in Coseley for the future. The college would also be pleased to enter into discussions to consider alternative uses of the school site in the interim period."

People have until April 5 to have their say on the future of the school at www.dudley.gov.uk