MP campaigning for UTC’s future

UTC, which delivered courses in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and computing to 14 to 18-year-olds, closed down 18 months ago.

Last week news broke that a bid by East Sussex College to take over the site had not succeeded, with James MacCleary, deputy leader of the district council and town councillor, describing it as ‘terrible news’ and a ‘kick in the teeth for our community’.

However, MP Maria Caulfield who has been pushing the matter robustly said this week: “While it is true that the East Sussex College’s bid to take on the UTC building has been turned down, there is a second bid going forward.”

The MP and council leader Zoe Nicholson have put out what they call a ‘statement of hope’ for UTC.

Councillor Nicholson said, “We are working with ministers in the Department of Education to see what options are open to us and the district council stands ready to play the fullest possible role in that shared enterprise.

“We have a vision for UTC that will create a skilled workforce of the future, specialists in renewables, science and green technology.

“I’m convinced that opportunities for a new era of training and employment opportunities at UTC is within our grasp.”

Ms Caulfield added: “This proposal to re-open the UTC building would enable the young people of Newhaven to have fantastic facilities on their doorstep for training and business start ups and I am pleased to be working with Lewes District Council and the Department for Education on this proposal.

“We anticipate this work will be done quickly and if successful, we will be able to make a formal announcement about the plans shortly.

“I would like to pay tribute to the Green Party Leader of the Council, Zoe Nicholson, for being prepared to work in a cross party way for the sake of Newhaven and potentially get a great result for the town.”