Planning application gets go-ahead,
23/02/04
A £22million project to redevelop Merton College and its Sixth Form Centre
will go ahead following a successful planning appeal. The announcement of the
decision, from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, means the College is
able to carry out its ambitious plans to improve facilities and resources for
its 5000 students.
The College's plans, which were also supported by many local
residents, involve the sale of its site at Central Road, with the proceeds
and additional funds
being invested in major redevelopment at its main site in nearby London Road.
The success of the College's appeal means that existing open space will now
be retained.
Sally McEnhill, Principal of the College, said: "This
is fantastic news for the people of Merton and all our students.
The plans enable us to maximise
resources for education and will help us provide even better services for local
school leavers, adults and employers. We now look forward to working with the
local community as we put our plans into action."
Work will commence
in July 2004, with completion expected in 2007. During the works, both
college sites will remain open, with every effort made to
negate
any possible disruption. Once work is finished, the College's Sixth Form
Centre, currently based at Central Road, will be moved to the London Road
site.
ENDS
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