STUDENTS could face lengthy journeys to get to lectures if the merger of South East Essex, Basildon and Thurrock colleges goes ahead, councillors have warned.

Rochford district councillors raised their concerns in response to the consultation being carried out by the Learning and Skills Council on the proposed merger.

The council said it was keen to ensure a full complement of courses is retained at both centres, to make sure students do not have to travel long distances.

Lesley Butcher, Tory councillor responsible for young people, said: “It would not be desirable, for example, if students from Rochford have to travel to Grays or for their course choices to be limited by travel considerations.

“It is essential adequate support and guidance is available to those students who need it and there are strong links with employers to provide apprenticeships and to ensure courses equip the students with the skills local employers need.”

Mrs Butcher said there were concerns the management of the college would be on one site and remote from students at the other sites which were some distance apart.

She added: “The proposal has the appearance of a takeover rather than a merger of equal partners.

“The positions of chairman of the corporation and the principal and chief executive should be subject to open competition.”

She added the council was also concerned the merged college could overshadow the provision at Seevic in Kiln Road, Thundersley.

Mrs Butcher said: “This is the college of choice for many Rochford students and has an excellent record, but requires additional funding to upgrade its present facilities.”

South East Essex College press officer Dean Newman said the merger was in the hands of the Learning and Skills Council which would answer any questions.

Area director Essex, Janice Logie, said: “We are in a consultation period which comes to an end this week. Any comments received are noted and responded to.”