STAFF at Sandwell College are set to strike over proposed cuts that could see over 90 jobs lost.

The Universities and Colleges Union (UCU) held a meeting on Monday afternoon and members agreed to ballot for industrial action.

Teresa Corr from the UCU said: “UCU members have indicated that they want to be balloted on taking industrial action as a response to the proposed restructuring at Sandwell College.

“Due to the legalities and procedures we have to go through before we can take industrial action it looks like it will not happen until the new academic year.”

She added: "We're met with the membership to give them more information about the massive job cuts planned by the college because the level of job cuts is shocking."

Sandwell College Principal Val Bailey blamed Government cutbacks for the restructuring.

She said:"We are extremely disappointed therefore to announce that, due to funding cuts and the political agenda, Sandwell College is embarking on a redundancy and restructuring programme."

"A very difficult decision has had to be taken to make some significant changes within the college, to ensure its ongoing security."

"This is a difficult position for us all and we do understand the feelings of the staff. We have done our best for as long as possible to avoid considering any redundancies, but we now have to take this course of action to protect the college’s future."

The college hopes to conclude the restructuring process by July 31.