FEAR has been sparked over the future of a historic Hampshire learning institution after a university admitted it is carrying out a business review.

There is a question mark over the future of Warsash Maritime Academy which is run by Southampton Solent University and has been a centre for education in the village since 1946.

It has trained crew, officers, captains and engineers for nearly 70 years and has become a landmark in the south of England.

Huge businesses, including Princess Cruises, Carnival UK and Maersk Crewing have used it for training purposes, and it says its vision is to be the international maritime academy of choice.

But after concerns were raised by businesspeople and politicians in the area, the university was forced to admit that an evaluation of the business is taking place.

A spokesman said: “We are in the process of carrying out a business review looking at the best way to invest in and develop our world-leading maritime education.

“Following extensive stakeholder engagement, this report will go to the board of governors for decision later this spring, the outcome of which will be announced to staff, students and the wider community.”

When asked whether this meant the Warsash centre could close, the spokesman said: “I can neither confirm nor deny this speculation, because the content of the review is not available and no decision will be made on it until it goes before the board later this spring.”

Millions of pounds has been spent investing in technology at the institution and it is known for its cutting-edge technology.

In 2012 a £2.7m training system was officially opened by Prince Philip at its lake in Romsey and a 5.9-metre catamaran created at the academy was unveiled at the PSP Southampton Boat Show last year.

MPs and councillors said they were concerned at the announcement and were worried about the effect the review would have on the area.

Fareham MP Mark Hoban told the Daily Echo: “The maritime college is a huge asset to the local area and has spent money in the last few years on its facilities to ensure that it continues to attract students from around the world.

“It’s absolutely vital to the strong maritime history of south Hampshire that the college has a strong and viable future.

“It would be very sad if it closed and it would be even worse if it moved out of the area.”

Trevor Cartwright MBE, a Fareham borough councillor for the village, said residents had raised concerns to him about the future of the learning centre.

He said: “It gives a lot of trade and there’s a lot of money coming in from the colleg. It’s prestigious and it would be a great loss.

“It’s been there almost as long as Warsash.”

Mike Thornton, MP for Eastleigh, highlighted the academy’s history.

He said: “It’s not in my constituency but I think any MP would be concerned to lose such an institution because it’s a leading educational facility.

“It has people with jobs and dedication to work and it’s played such a significant part in educating mariners and I hope it continues to do so.”