Campaigners make one last plea to councillors

THE FUTURE of the outdoor education centre at Upton Warren looks set to be safe.

The centre was at risk of closing when owners Worcestershire County Council announced last year it would be off-loading it as part of its bid to slash budgets.

However, following the latest meeting of the cabinet, committee members agreed Acorn Venture would be the new provider for the centre.

The company has more than 30 years experience and runs ten outdoor facilities in five countries. Council bosses also recommended Acorn assumed control of the Malvern Outdoor Education Centre.

Head of centre Phil Ascogh said Upton Warren had been challenged three years ago to reach ‘cost neutral status’ so the centre could effectively pay for itself.

He added the recent announcement meant all staff should keep their jobs, although he was unsure about the full implications of the move at this stage.

Coun Jane Potter, responsible for education and skills for Worcestershire, said: “Two of the county council’s key priorities are children and families and the environment.

“The centres provide excellent educational outdoor experiences for Worcestershire’s school children, which has many benefits to their personal and social development in fantastic environments.

“I am delighted we have been able to identify a sustainable future for them at a time of unprecedented financial challenge.”

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