COLCHESTER could see a reduction in the number of mid Essex students enrolled at its sixth form college, after a £5 million facility in Braintree was given the go ahead.
Work is due to start on Braintree Sixth Form early next year, after schools became concerned that more than 300 of the town's youngsters travel to Colchester for their further education.
The new centre - due to open in September 2009 - will cater for up to 300 students and will include a performing arts block with auditorium, teaching space for science and technology, refectory and private study area.
Simon Thompson, head of Notley High School - where the centre will be built - said: "We are absolutely delighted that now we can press ahead with our plans with the architects and get the project out to competitive tender.
"We are anticipating work will start in February or March. We will certainly be started on site by Easter next year at the latest."
Members of Essex County Council's development and regulation committee approved the plans on Friday.
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