Stourbridge College has proved that it’s cutting edge when it comes to creative industries and its designs on a new campus are on track for success with work about to begin on the Venture Way site. The £12m investment in a new Centre in the heart of Brierley Hill is all set to contribute to the regeneration of the area and is the first phase in a rolling investment programme by one of the best performing colleges in the region.Lynette Cutting, Principal, said: “We are all really excited about the new building. We have worked hard to make sure we have good value for money on every aspect of the building and it’s going to be inspiring for the students. We are also refurbishing our student facilities at the Hagley Road Centre to improve sports and recreational areas as a further boost for both staff and students.”
Gordon McCartin, Project Manager for builders, BAM Construction, who have extensive experience in the education sector, said: “We’re delighted to be building for Stourbridge College. Our team has strong local connections and we will involve local suppliers and create local employment opportunities as well as making a commitment to support the college with training and development. We’re looking forward to getting on site later this month.”
Andy Almond, Partner at architect’s Pick Everard, said: “The design for the Centre has resulted from close collaboration between Stourbridge College and its professional consultants with ‘first class learning’ being the clear target at all stages. We have created an excitingly dynamic design which reflects the nature of the aspiring students and contributes positively to the location.”
Tom O’Callaghan, Director of Gleeds Management Services Ltd who are managing the project on behalf of Stourbridge College, said: “Gleeds are delighted to be appointed as Consultant Project Manager for the new campus. We have an excellent track record in the education sector and have built up a strong relationship with Stourbridge College over the last number of years.”
Duncan Bower, Development Director at Westfield, said: “Local employment growth through high standards of training and education is paramount to the future prosperity of the area and we are extremely pleased to be contributing towards Stourbridge College’s new facility with the sale of land. Merry Hill is the leading retail and leisure destination in the region and Westfield continues to work with local partners to secure the ongoing regeneration of Brierley Hill strategic town centre through the progression of the Joint Core Strategy and the Area Action Plan.”
The new building will house up to 1,000 students and will be open in September 2011.