Adult education course fees in Wolverhampton have been increased by 15 per cent and discounts for over-60s scrapped in council service cuts.

Changes, the biggest shake-up in funding for the adult education service were approved by the council’s cabinet.

The service, offering courses such as GCSEs in maths and English, textiles, computing qualifications and floristry, runs classes up to 36 weeks long.

GCSE English course rates rise from £150 to £192 and hourly rates for floristry classes from £2.45 to £2.90.

It is the first of £40 million cuts confirmed, with £640,000 withdrawn from the adult education budget.

Those from deprived communities such as Blakenhall who were entitled to discounts have seen reductions cancelled, with all rises due from April.

A request by Labour to refer the move to a scrutiny board for further consideration was refused.

Councillor Neville Patten, Tory leader of the council, said: “I think the opportunity has already been there to debate this.” Other cuts, yet to be confirmed, include closing the Disability Learning Centre, Sweetman Street, and Underhill House care residential care home, Fallings Park, as well as a 10 per cent leisure fees rise.