A GRAYS councillor has expressed her concern about the possibility of Thurrock's Adult Community College being closed and says that the council's plans for the scheme - which are also upsetting residents close to the Richmond Road centre in Grays - 'sketchy'.

Thurrock Nub News reported on the possibility of the site being developed last year - it is one of those on the controversial council list of sites it owns that might be suitable for new council houses.

The matter was raised again in November when councillors were told that architects had been appointed for development of part of the Richmond Road site and a 'build cost plan was awaited'.

Members were told the future of the college remains under review. "The footprint offers scope for expanded development to accommodate approximately 50 dwellings" officers said in a report.

Little has been said since November and local residents and supporters of the college believe its future is being decided behind closed doors, with possible relocation to South Essex College in the town centre being discussed.

Grays Riverside ward councillor Jane Pothecary shares the concern and says: "I'm extremely concerned about the future of the Adult Education Centre. Adult education is an incredibly important part of the local community and absolutely essential to lifelong learning. Adult education brings so many benefits which are well documented and researched. It is crucial to ensuring that everyone has the chance to learn whatever stage of life they are at.

"I have major reservations about the Adult Education Centre either being hosted in the South Essex College building or its services transferring to the management of South Essex College.

"Adult Education learners often have very different needs to those in further and higher education. The potential loss of the childcare facility at the Adult Education Centre would be devastating, both for the local community and for learners.

"Childcare is a massive barrier for parents (especially women) and the current arrangement is tailored around learners at the centre, giving them the flexibility to study. South Essex College does not currently have a childcare facility.

"Furthermore, lots of community and arts groups (including Thurrock Courts Players and the Family History Society) hire the Adult Education Centre at a reasonable cost that reflects what they give back to the community. Hire at South Essex College would likely be at commercial rates.

"I am trying to find more information on the council's plans but it all seems very sketchy at the moment."

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