A partnership between Essex University and South East Essex College is being forged in a bid for extra funding.

The relationship is designed to attract money to provide university level courses in Southend.

The bid will be launched at a House of Commons reception on Wednesday hosted by Bernard Jenkins MP.

Representatives from schools, colleges, local authorities and industry will attend the function.

The vice-chancellor of Essex University, professor Ivor Crewe, and South East Essex College chief executive Tony Pitcher will present a business plan to the Higher Education Funding Council.

Professor Crewe said: "This is the most exciting development in higher education in the county since the development of this university more than a generation ago.

"The partnership will bring modern, IT-based learning in an innovative environment, which is responsive to the needs of students, industry and the local community."

The college currently offers limited higher education provision to its population of three quarters of a million people.

The partnership plans for a new town centre building to house higher and further education in central Southend are already in progress.

Professor Crewe added: "We are hopeful that the Funding Council will look favourably on our bid."

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