BURY College is a step closer to securing funding for three new start-of-the art buildings and refurbishing other departments.

The expansion plans are contained in its 2003 to 2006 property strategy.

New developments are set to include:

A nursery creating 50 places serving both the college and the local community.

A specialist teaching facility for early years education and health and social care. This would be in support of the college's recent recognition as a Centre of Vocational Excellence in Early Years Development and Childcare.

A performing arts and humanities centre.

The three-year proposal submitted to the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) maps out the college's future development plans and includes an application for capital support and a sub proposal to Bury Council for outline planning consent.

Refurbishment will continue at the college's Woodbury Centre, which has already seen recent investment of more than £10 million.

New salons for hairdressing and beauty will be developed, creating modern, industry standard facilities. The college's information and guidance centre will be enhanced and specialist facilities put in place to support the college's recent application for Centre of Vocational Excellence status in management human resources and business services.

College principal, Dr Helen Gilchrist, said: "Building for the future represents an exciting time for Bury College. We will be able to further improve and expand our facilities and courses, providing new opportunities for our students."

She added: "With continuing growth in the number of school-leavers and the growing needs of local businesses, this investment will allow the college to meet the demands and challenges of the future head on."

The college will be notified of the LSC's decision by April. If given the go-ahead, it is anticipated that all facilities will be in place by July 2005.