The conclusion of a farming school in Cumbria would be a “hammer blow” for the area, an association has said.
Newton Rigg Campus in Penrith has been reserved for conclusion in July 2021 after an autonomous audit found the site was not monetarily practical.
Its administering body said an interview was being done with its staff.
The University and College Union (UCU) said the plans which would cost 117 occupations and leave Cumbria without pro rural instruction.
Askham Bryn College, its overseeing body, said the choice followed the discoveries of a Further Education Commissioner survey of instructive arrangement at the grounds and in the more extensive region, and a ultimate choice would be made “after the finishing of the legal discussion in regard of school staff”.
Iain Owens, the UCU’s provincial authority, stated: “This is a sledge blow for the individuals of Penrith and Cumbria who depend on Newton Rigg to give training to their youngsters.
“The conclusion would leave Cumbria – one of the most agronomically dependant districts in the nation – with no expert horticultural training.”
Tim Whitaker, CEO and head at Askham Bryan College, stated: “Given the current financial atmosphere, and the way that no capital or income subsidizing is accessible, we have no other choice yet to propose shutting the office in July 2021.
“We will do everything we can to help our staff and understudies at this troublesome time.”
