Merger proposed for two Cheshire colleges

Two colleges in Cheshire have announced plans to merge, creating a single organisation.

Leaders at Cheshire College South and West and those at Macclesfield College said the proposed merger would take place from August, after a consultation on the scheme opened on Wednesday.

The merger would create "a stronger, more resilient organisation", they said.

The combined college would serve more than 15,000 learners which would include about 6,300 full-time students and 1,500 apprentices.

It would have a total of 900 members of staff and a combined turnover of more than £69m.

The two colleges currently operate across four sites – Macclesfield College on Park Lane in Macclesfield, while Cheshire College South and West has bases in Crewe, Chester and Ellesmere Port.

Documents on the proposed merger did not set out whether or not all four sites would be retained or if there would be any redundancies as a result of the merger.

"As we move forward with the proposed merger, we want to reassure colleagues that the interests and wellbeing of staff remain a key priority," bosses said.

"The merger aims to strengthen our organisation while creating new opportunities for professional development, career progression, and collaboration across both colleges.

"We are committed to supporting staff throughout the transition and ensuring a positive, stable, and inclusive working environment as we bring our teams together."

Bosses said learners and those applying for courses for September 2026 would continue their courses and qualifications as planned.

Learners who had not completed their studies by the merger date would continue their education within the merged college, they added.

People have until 28 April to comment on the plans.

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