I am writing this petition with a heavy heart and a deep sense of urgency to save Amersham college from being demolished. For many of us in our close-knit community, this college is more than just a place of learning: it is the cornerstone of our local identity, providing easy access to education and contributing significantly to our area both socially and economically. 

Amersham college matters because it gives a local place for people to learn, build skills and prepare for the future without having to leave the community behind. It supports students, families, staff and local businesses, and it helps keep our area connected and active. If it is demolished, we will lose far more than a building. We will lose a local place that has served the community and helped shape it over time. 

We know that communities need growth and change, but that change should not come at the cost of destroying something so valuable for the local area. Once college like this is gone, it cannot easily be replaced. Demolition would remove an important resource and weaken the social and economic life around it. 

For families with disabled members and those with mental disabilities, Amersham college offers a much needed stability and accessibility close to home. The very thought of relocating to Wycombe, a place more densely populated and with its higher crime rates, is distressing. More development in such an area, while possibly catering to modern infrastructure, does not align with current needs of our students and families and could potentially increase these risks further. In addition, by demolishing Amersham college it neglects future opportunities for Amersham residents  leaving the people feeling abandoned of their local area’s post-school education which as result has an affect on young people’s mental health. 

The community of Amersham benefits immensely from the college. It’s closure would not only deprive future students of quality education options but also a ripple effect, damaging local businesses (as students at college everyday go to the local shops like cafe’s for break and lunch times). The plans to demolish and replace it with a new college in Wycombe seem both unfair and short-sighted. 

I am not only concerned about the economic implications but also the impact to people. The forced change may cause severe anguish for those current students who struggle with new environments due to their disabilities, further isolating them and  putting additional stress on their mental health. 

Every college has their unique qualities. However, Amersham college in particular is most unique in the area as it’s the smallest campus of Bucks College Group. This is highly beneficial for people who like a peaceful, nurturing and quieter atmosphere. Additionally, this college is know for being the “creative hub” of the campuses as the other two campuses of Bucks College Groups focus primarily on more basic courses. Without Amersham college these privileges wouldn't be the same  if this college relocates to Wycombe, as the hustle and bustle of Wycombe is not suitable for everyone especially those with disabilities and the accessibility of having to travel further away. This will cause time pressure issues for people to get there on time as travelling far can be challenging, as a result it causes higher chances of people dropping out. 

I am asking the council or other officials associated with the relocation plan to rethink the plan, considering stopping the demolition and to work with the community to find a better solution. Please protect this important local college, preserve its role in our area, the people who depend on it now and in the future.