Fears over future of Leamington guide dog centre

STAFF at Leamington’s Guide Dogs for the Blind training school, Edmonscote Manor, may have to re-apply for their jobs as the charity heads towards a major restructuring of its operation.

Some Guide Dog centres across the country have closed and last October the national association - which has used the Warwick New Road site for the past 80 years - was given approval for demolition of the manor and the building of 35 new dwellings, subject to certain conditions on the provision of public open space.

More than 100 workers based at the manor have been informed that they should attend a meeting on July 28 - even if they are away on leave at the time.

One person closely involved with the charity told the Courier anonymously: “Everyone is worried about what this restructuring means - it could be that guide dog trainers will in future carry out more individual work in people’s own homes meaning there is less need for such a big base in Leamington.”