A PROPOSAL to merge two colleges could put jobs at risk, a leading councillor has warned.

A public consultation over a proposed merger between Accrington and Rossendale College and Nelson and Colne College got under way on Friday.

The merger, which if approved would come in to effect in November, has been put forward by bosses of the colleges in a bid to ‘direct resources more effectively and to secure a stronger financial future.’

Although there are currently no plans to close any buildings on either campus or merge courses, leader of Hyndburn Council Miles Parkinson was concerned about the potential consequences of the link-up.

He said: “As with all mergers of this kind, a loss of jobs is to be expected if it was to go ahead.

“It has been driven by government cuts and potential risk to jobs is a big concern.

“It’s also important to consider that should these colleges merge, they would have to work together to ensure there are no consequences for pupils or staff – delivering a high standard of education is the priority here.”

Despite these reservations, leader of Pendle Borough Council and board member at Nelson and Colne College Cllr Mohammed Iqbal said that the two colleges ‘already have a strong working relationship.’

He said: “This is an opportunity for the colleges to provide a higher standard of education across East Lancashire, and if better education could be provided the it is something I would recommend.

“When it comes to a potential loss of jobs, it is my job to ensure this doesn’t happen.

“There are always going to be risks but we are very open minded and will do everything to ensure this merger is successful.”

A statement released by bosses at the colleges cited 'delivering the highest quality provision for all and ensuring outstanding achievements and employment outcomes' as their main goals.

In a joint statement, principals of Nelson and Colne College Amanda Melton and interim principal of Accrington and Rossendale College Lynda Mason said: “We are delighted to announce the vision for a new merged college for Pennine Lancashire, building on the strengths of Accrington and Rossendale College and Nelson and Colne College.

“By merging, both colleges will be able to direct resources more effectively to serve our customers, benefitting from greater efficiency and securing a stronger financial future, in the context of reduced funding for education.”

Bosses say they will have the learner and customers at its very heart and will work hard to ensure they have the best possible outcomes.

They added: “Both colleges have ambitious plans to support students, staff, employers and other stakeholders and to achieve greater success.”

For more information on the public consultation, visit www.peninemerger.co.uk