BALLOTS over possible strike action at Bradford College will open tomorrow.

It was recently revealed that around 75 jobs at the cash strapped college were under threat due to restructuring plans.

The University and College Union are now balloting staff for strike action over the plans to cut jobs and change contracts.

The ballot will begin on Friday April 13 and finish on Thursday May 3.

A similar ballot is being held at Kirklees College, where 52 jobs are at risk.

The union said the plans would hit students the hardest and urged the colleges to work with UCU to develop alternatives to cutting jobs. UCU regional official, Julie Kelley, said: ‘Job cuts would mean fewer learning opportunities for the people of Bradford, and a huge loss of valuable expertise.

‘Members feel they have been left with no option but to ballot for strike action in order to defend jobs and working conditions. We want both colleges to halt their damaging plans and work with us to develop alternative approaches.’

A Bradford College spokesman said: "Our Strategic Recovery Plan is focused on improving the quality of provision for students whilst achieving financial sustainability. In some subject areas we have fewer students and therefore have to realign our resources. We are also introducing new roles such as Curriculum and Quality Managers so that we focus on delivering outstanding teaching and learning.

"We are seeking to avoid compulsory redundancies and welcome any alternative proposals from staff and the UCU. We are therefore disappointed that the UCU is balloting for strike action, which we do not feel is in the best interests of students or staff."