Hair raising decision made by councillor

Greg Couzens receiving his award from Bury College

A Rochdale Councillor has made a controversial decision to use a college outside of Rochdale to train staff for his business.

Councillor Greg Couzens, who owns a hair salon on The Walk has recently stopped using Rochdale College and transferred to Bury College as it met his business needs.

Mr Couzens, cabinet member for finance said: “Training is the lifeblood to any successful company, especially in this difficult economic climate. I have been responsible for the training of hundreds of apprentices over 27 years of running my business.

“Up until twelve months ago my apprentices were trained at Rochdale College but unfortunately I was told that I could no longer receive training within my salon, whereas Bury were quick to accommodate, it saddens me that Rochdale College could not be more accommodating I have had lengthy debates with senior members of staff and the principal all to no avail.

“I have tried all that I can to keep my trainees within the Borough but at the end of the day I have a business to run.  I thank Bury College for their exemplary standards and for being flexible to meet the training needs of today."

This week Mr Couzens won an award for Commitment to Employer Partnership Development from Bury College. He said: “We were very pleased to receive this award, it highlights the Benefits of the Apprenticeship programmes and we will continue to raise the standard of hairdressing within the Borough.”

Leader of the Labour Party, Councillor Colin Lambert described the decision as ‘another own goal by the Lib Dem-Conservative coalition.'

He said: “At a time when we are trying to build skills, knowledge and training based in the borough this is a betrayal of the borough of Rochdale.”

Deputy Leader of the Council and Leader of the Conservative party, Councillor Ashley Dearnley, chose not to comment on the matter.