A MALVERN business group has called for the Malvern Hills College building to carry on training students after its planned closure was annoucned.

High Street Malvern has called for the college's technical education to continue, saying it should remain in service as a college rather than be repurposed for housing.

On the HSM Facebook page, it says: "The town will benefit from new government defence funding as the Science Park is designated as a Cyber centre.

READ MORE: MP and councillors slam decision to close Malvern Hills College

"There will be many new jobs but the town lacks educational facilities for training local young people. The Malvern Hills College should be able to fill this gap and not be knocked down for more houses."

Active since 1886, Malvern Hills College will re-open in March 2021 temporarily to allow students to complete their studies which were interrupted by the pandemic, with full time vocational courses including hair and barbering being transferred to Evesham College.

After Malvern Hills College has closed, WCG will continue using its digital and cyber technology training facility at the Malvern Hills Science Park.