Network Rail is set to leave its training base near Kenilworth after more than 17 years at the centre.

The national rail company bought the former Cable and Wireless College on Westwood Heath Road in 2005 as part of a £20million investment.

But Network Rail confirmed to Nub News that it would be leaving the south Coventry centre at the end of the year.

It remains in use while consultations on the closure continue with the staff affected.

Guy Wilmhurst-Smith, Network Rail head of professional development and training, said: "We're committed to investing in developing our people. That's why we've improved the way we deliver our apprenticeship schemes and moved to a local-led training model.

"However, this change means that we no longer need our national training facility, Westwood.

"We are continuing to work with Trade Unions about this change and any colleagues at risk will be redeployed where possible."

Network Rail has 18 other training centres nationwide.

The study complex was built on the ten-acre site in 1992 with 150 bedrooms and 40 meeting rooms.

In 2012 Network Rail led a full refurbishment of the art deco facility, creating more bedrooms, kitchens, break-out rooms and work spaces.