Two colleges are in talks to unite.

Macclesfield College and Cheshire College South & West (CCSW) have announced the start of formal discussions regarding a proposed merger.

This would result in the creation of one of the region's largest and most resilient General Further Education institutions.

In a joint statement, the colleges said: "Our vision is to create a regional powerhouse for education and skills — a strong, sustainable group able to invest in its communities, innovate in its curriculum and deliver a 'stronger together' offer that meets the needs of learners, employers and the wider region."

The merger, described by both colleges as 'voluntary', would position the new college group at the forefront of skills and education provision in anticipation of regional devolution.

The two institutions will now undertake a period of due diligence and public consultation, with a proposed merger date of July 2026.

Based on the latest available data, the merged college could serve approximately 11,000 learners and generate a combined annual income exceeding £63 million.