Cambridge University vet school could close
Jeff Overs/BBCThe University of Cambridge could close its veterinary school by 2032 under recommendations put forward by its School of the Biological Sciences.
Staff, current and prospective students were told about the proposal on Wednesday, which would see the last cohort of undergraduates join next October.
A final decision will be made by the university's general board in January.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) said the news was "deeply worrying" and it was working with the university to make sure it continued the course.
About 160 people are employed at the site and about 65 students pass through the school each year.
A spokesperson for the university said: "The recommendation comes after the university's general board asked the school council to consider various options for the sustainable delivery of clinical services.
"After careful consideration, it was concluded that there was no viable long-term solution."
In November last year, the university was given 10 months to meet recommendations for improvement of the veterinary degree by The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
The BVA said the news comes just weeks after the RCVS extended conditional accreditation of the degree for a year following significant improvements.
Dr Rob Williams, president of the BVA, said: "The ongoing uncertainty around the future of Cambridge will be hugely concerning for everyone affected and it's vital that where possible the impact of this uncertainty is minimised."
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