A slice of Euro cash could be used to boost South East Essex College's £55million relocation plans, it has been revealed.

Chief executive Tony Pitcher hopes to secure a portion of Objective Two funding to support the college's move to a prime town centre site, linked to a new shopping centre in the old Odeon cinema.

Other sources could include £18million from the Further Education Funding Council, proceeds from the sale of its existing buildings to property company Martin Dawn and around £8million from college reserves.

Essex University has also agreed to contribute to the overall cost.

Mr Pitcher stressed funding had not yet been secured but he was confident of attracting the cash boost soon.

He said: "There are a number of hurdles to clear including the project being evaluated by the Higher Education Funding Council."

Martin Dawn chairman, Ron Martin, insisted it was too soon to speculate on the future of the college buildings at Carnarvon Road.

However, he said the London Road site could be used for either commercial or residential use.

He said: "Our role in this is essentially a partnership. It is a combination of the land owned by the college and the company which makes up the whole project."

Meanwhile, Professor Ivor Crewe, vice-chancellor of Essex University, today spoke of his delight at the proposals.

The university is teaming up with South East Essex College to offer a series of higher education courses in the borough.

It is believed the first students will begin studying for degrees in 2001. Prof Crewe said: "These plans will transform educational opportunities and facilities in the region and we are looking forward to developing a range of higher education courses for this modern, hi-tech building."

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.