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B&FC named 'Preferred Partner' for proposed merger with Furness College

Published on 29/07/2025 by SGLAS

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Blackpool and The Fylde College (B&FC) has been selected as the preferred partner for a proposed merger with Furness College.

This follows a Structure and Prospects Appraisal (SPA) led by the FE Commissioner, Shelagh Legrave, which considered the long-term resilience and sustainability of Furness College.

The decision has been formally approved by Furness College’s governing body.

The merger marks a major milestone for both organisations which share a strong commitment to delivering high-quality education, supporting coastal communities and contributing to regional economic growth.

With complementary curriculum strengths, including specialist provision in the Defence sector, and a shared focus on student success, the partnership is expected to bring long-term benefits for learners, employers and communities across Lancashire and Cumbria.

Subject to the successful completion of due diligence and planning, the merger is anticipated to conclude within the next 12 months.

Alun Francis, Chief Executive Officer at B&FC, said: “We are delighted and honoured to be selected as the preferred partner for Furness College.”

“This is a strong endorsement of the impact our colleagues deliver every day and of our ambitious plans for the future.

“I held an informal briefing with Furness colleagues last week, and we’re looking forward to working more closely together in the months ahead to explore how we can combine strengths and create even greater opportunities for our students, colleagues and communities.”

Nicola Cove, Principal and CEO of Furness College, added: “This is an important step in defining the future of Furness College.”

“Our Board unanimously approved B&FC’s selection and we’re now entering a period of due diligence and planning to ensure our future merger is shaped collaboratively and is in the best interests of all stakeholders.”

“We’re already collaborating with B&FC and continuing to work hard on improving our education and training to meet the needs of our learners and the regional economy.”