Rolle news is good for town

It is great news that, subject to final approval from the county council and the University of Plymouth's readiness to sell, the main buildings on the Rolle campus are set to become a post-16 college. Congratulations to all those who have worked so hard to keep the idea alive and appreciation to Devon County Council for their negotiating skills and for coming up with the capital finance. The ECA has strongly supported this development. As we said in our report (November 2007) the consortium's proposals offer far and away the best outcome because they l Make optimum use of the main campus within government policies to improve health, education and employment. l Demonstrate the university's proper stewardship of public funds by avoiding the demolition of buildings which, while requiring some upgrading, are in good condition.l Offer continuation and expansion of employment opportunities.l Go some way to compensate for the substantial damage to the economy of Exmouth from the loss of university students.l Secure Exmouth's place as a significant centre of education and training.We are confident that, under Tony Alexander's leadership, the new Rolle will provide outstanding further education opportunities for Exmouth and beyond. With the right support from government, local government and the community, it will be able to provide exceptional training opportunities, which will encourage employers to look at Exmouth as a place where they can find the skilled workforce they need.We are hoping that similar imagination and energy can be devoted now by Devon County Council and the Diocesan Education Board to achieve our other suggestion for the use of Langstone, the remaining part of the main campus, as the site for the long-awaited replacement of the Beacon C of E Primary School. Roy Pryke, Chairman, Exmouth Community Association