A lecturers' union has declared a trade dispute with Bradford College in response to plans to axe more than 100 jobs.

The National Association of Teachers in Further and Higher Education met with about 500 members this week and agreed to declare they were in an ongoing dispute.

Earlier this month the Telegraph & Argus reported how 122 teaching and non-teaching posts are to go as part of a restructuring plan to tackle the college's projected deficit of at least £1.3 million.

And yesterday about 500 members at the college joined a separate national one-day walkout over pay.

Martyn Moss, NATFHE's regional officer, said it was likely more industrial action would be held at the college, which has its main base in Great Horton Road, in response to the redundancies.

"Our members are extremely angry about the 122 redundancies which have been announced," he said. "They are concerned about how it affects their job security. Many lecturers are saying they work in growth areas and cannot see why their jobs should go."

He said the union asked the college two weeks ago for a breakdown of figures to see why so many jobs would have to go. A 90-day consultation period is now being held with the college's managers and the union.

College bosses blamed the financial crisis on high salary costs and failure to keep the required number of students.

A spokesman said regular meetings were being held with the union to discuss their concerns. "It would be a matter of considerable regret if any of the union were to decide to take industrial action, as it would impact adversely on learners, their courses and their experience in college," he said.

"Management believe the proposed changes (redundancies) are important for current and future students and the Bradford district as a whole.

"The proposed changes are designed to help the college remain relevant and effective in the context of new and changing educational needs."