Politicians have blasted Perth College UHI’s decision to close its three learning centres in Perth and Kinross.
The college announced on Friday, March 22 the learning centres in Crieff, Kinross and Blairgowrie will not continue beyond June this year due financial difficulties.
The centres host a wide range of courses and skill sessions for local people and give students living in rural areas easier access to college facilities.
The provision, currently delivered from the Pathways Centre in Perth city centre, will relocate to the main campus from June.
Friday’s announcement ended weeks of speculation about the three centres.
A spokesperson on behalf of Perth College said: “Perth College UHI continually reviews our activities and the affordability of delivering our services in all locations.
“Course numbers and the upcoming loss of rurality funding has enforced us to review our provision in the current fiscal climate, with the college facing significant financial challenges.
“We will continue to review opportunities for delivering educational provision in our local communities alongside local partners.”
Roseanna Cunningham, MSP for the Perthshire South and Kinross-shire constituency, has expressed her disappointment at the decision.
She said: “Providing a community level educational resource, these learning centres were an example of widening access to further education and, to my mind, a thoughtful and sensible extension of the UHI’s collegiate model.
“I had previously raised concerns when I learned that closure was a possibility and I am very disappointed indeed to learn that the board of Perth College have now taken the decision to close the learning centres in Kinross and Crieff.
“I am shocked that this decision has been presented as a sort of secretive fait accompli, without any consultation process.
“Staff and students have been kept in the dark and they are axing courses that are not only full but have a waiting list.
“This decision is a backward step and I urge the board at Perth College to think again and find a way of continuing to support these important facilities.”
Speaking on the closure of the Blairgowrie centre, John Swinney MSP said: “I am very concerned by this news and will be raising this issue with the college.
“I will be seeking reassurance about the delivery of learning opportunities to my constituents in Blairgowrie and in the city centre as it is vital there is effective access for all learners.
“I will also be seeking urgent assurances regarding the future of members of staff, who deliver vital educational opportunities within the community.”
MSPs for Mid Scotland and Fife region, Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith, slammed the decision, describing the facilities as “important assets” to their local communities.
