CAMPAIGNERS fighting against Coleg Gwent's decision to close The Hill Educational centre in Abergavenny and to sell the site for housing have slammed the move as morally wrong and short-sighted.

A spokeswoman for the CASH campaigners said, "When Coleg Gwent states that CASH's bid for The Hill is 'unrealistic' it totally misses the point.

"CASH is not bidding for land on which to build houses and make a killing. We were, and are, seeking to retain the main buildings for educational use. No doubt Coleg Gwent is negotiating with a major house developer with many millions at its disposal and shareholders who seek returns. CASH is not in that position."

The campaigners stress that their priority is education and that their bid, which is still on the table for discussion, would allow for Coleg Gwent selling 75 percent of the site for development.

The spokeswoman added, "The College could gain substantial funds from that, but our bid also offers the College a continuing role in Abergavenny.

"The sad fact is that Coleg Gwent is dazzled by pound signs and totally missing a great opportunity. We are concerned that The Hill, a jewel in Abergavenny's crown, will be lost forever.

"Coleg Gwent is funded to provide education. It has a wonderful Abergavenny campus at The Hill but refuses to provide education there. Now, it is blocking attempts by local people to fill that educational gap. CASH has formed a Community Interest Company for that purpose with all surpluses to be invested back into The Hill.

A meeting of interested parties hosted by the Bryn y Cwm Area Committee on Tuesday resolved to send Coleg Gwent two resolutions expressing their concern and over the decision to sell the site for development, without allowing a full consideration of the proposal from CASH.

The committee have requested that action on the decision by Coleg Gwent Governors should be suspended to allow representation from Town and County Councillors and a presentation from CASH.

"The College should think again and work with CASH to achieve our sensible, mutually beneficial proposal," the spokeswoman concluded.