Minehead £3.3m social care academy faces uncertain future, Somerset Council admits
Somerset Council is considering the closure of the Pilot Academy in Minehead
Minehead's £3.3m social care academy may be shut down as Somerset Council assesses its future usage.
Originally funded through a £19.7m government grant meant to transform Bridgwater’s former community hospital into a health and social care academy, the Minehead site at the Seahorse Resource Centre was developed as a satellite location.
However, Somerset Council recently confirmed that the pilot use of the Minehead site might not continue.
The Minehead closure was initially speculated during a council committee meeting in May and has been attributed to logistical challenges faced by those accessing the site.
Minehead lacks direct and convenient transport links, contributing to difficulties for people reaching the academy.
The council’s head of regeneration, Lara Bell, highlighted that the site may not be viable in the long term unless demand increases.
Councillor Frances Nicholson has voiced opposition to the possible closure, representing the concerns of local residents affected by the decision.
The Bridgwater academy's main site remains on track with additional funding and planning adjustments, anticipated for official opening by October 2028.
The council continues exploring alternatives for the Minehead site, emphasising that training across Somerset will persist to satisfy local workforce needs.