The campaign to save a former arts college in Malvern has been dealt a major financial blow.
A community-led group has been trying to buy Malvern Hills College, in Albert Road North, from owners WCG (Warwickshire College Group) since it closed in 2021.
Malvern Hills Arts & Community College was hoping to start running courses at the site from as early as September.
It had secured the promise of funding from Malvern Hills District Council, Worcestershire County Council and the Bransford Trust.
Each had pledged to pay in the region of £400,000 should an agreement be reached with WCG.
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But it appears the parties have been unable to strike a deal, despite talks resuming recently and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak speaking about it in Parliament.
Now, according to the Save Malvern Hills College Group, the Bransford Trust has pulled its financial backing.
“Sadly, the terms of the deal required by WCG earlier this month are unacceptable to The Bransford Trust CIO who, as trustees of a registered charity, have certain fiduciary and regulatory responsibilities in the way they commit the assets of their charity,” the group said.
“The Trust remains supportive of the plans but has withdrawn finance for this particular deal.”
The Save Malvern Hills College Group also said a date had been set at the High Court as WCG looks to overturn a covenant that prevents the college site from being sold for anything other than education purposes.
WCG has previously said: "Legal proceedings are always a final resort when a situation cannot be otherwise resolved."
Speaking in March, a spokesperson added: "We remain open to constructive dialogue and have always been willing to talk to any potential buyer who makes a viable offer which meets the legal obligations placed upon the college group."
With a new set of councillors at the district council following the local elections earlier this month, the campaign group is now keen to retain the council’s support.
Supporters are being urged to gather outside the council chamber in Avenue Road tomorrow (Tuesday, May 23) ahead of the council’s first meeting since the election at 6pm.
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