Businesses face being forced out of The Public thanks to Sandwell College plan
Businesses at The Public would be kicked out if plans to turn it into a sixth form college go ahead – but there will be space for art exhibitions, it has emerged.
The 29 firms based at the arts centre are facing an uncertain future after the announcement that Sandwell College could take it over. And now vice-principal Scott Upton has said although the ground floor would remain exhibition space, there would be no room for companies.
"The idea of having members of the public walking around while teaching is taking place, it's a non-starter." Mr Upton said the future of the firms based at The Public is 'not the college's concern' and he understood most of the businesses were on short-term leases only.
"The lease is between the council and the businesses," he said. "The college's responsibility is the education and learning of the people of West Bromwich.
"We have strong relations with businesses and industry.
"We do a lot of work with businesses and local enterprise partnerships. I can't provide businesses with other bases. We're acting in the interests of learners." Mr Upton said they were looking at having around 80 per cent of the building for the college, and 20 per cent for art space.
One business based at The Public is LearnPlay Foundation, a not-for-profit company which offers apprenticeships for youngsters wanting to work in digital media. It employs 200 people from the area. "I am incredibly shocked," said company boss Ro Hands. "I am stunned the college is not even talking to us.
"I don't see how we could get the same terms we're offered here elsewhere."
The Public managing director Linda Saunders said she was sorry to hear businesses would have to leave the building.
"I think that's a sad loss for West Bromwich," she said.
