I WAS puzzled to read your story on the impact of the closure of two adult education centres in Westminster in which you claim 'dozens of mature students would be left without a place to study' ("Adult learning centres to shut", July 24).
The student you quote is not with the Westminster Adult Education Service (WAES). Secondly, your reporter did not contact the council's press office or WAES for a comment.
Had she done, she would have been told the Amberley Road and Ebury Bridge adult education centre buildings are old and not suitable for refurbishment to meet modern student and teaching needs. They are to be replaced with three new facilities in the north, south and central areas of the city.
These buildings will accommodate just as many, if not more, students than at present.
WAES is one of the most successful adult education services in the capital, and, with 8,000 learners, is the largest provider of qualificationbearing education and training for adults in central London. We are gaining a reputation as one of the leading services nationally and, through the provision of these new state-of-the-art centres, aim to continue to provide first-quality services that address the changing needs of students in Westminster and beyond.
I am sorry you are not able to celebrate these ambitious plans with us.
Cllr Carolyn Keen Chairman of the governing body of WAES
Westminster City Council Editor's note: The student referred to gave a face-to-face interview and confirmed she attended the Amberley Road adult education service.
