Work is underway on the £38m second phase of the Barnfield College campus in Luton. This latest development will provide a four-storey, high-tech Construction and Engineering centre on the New Bedford Road College campus.
The new development will replace the College’s Enterprise Way campus which currently hosts Construction and Engineering courses – bringing all students onto one vibrant College campus, equipped with the full range of services students need to be successful. In the new facilities, students will have access to the latest equipment and technologies needed to develop the modern skills needed now and in the future.
Cath Gunn, Principal of Barnfield College said: “We are delighted that works have commenced on this state-of-the-art Construction and Engineering centre on our New Bedford Road site. The Construction and Engineering industries are some of the largest and fastest growing employment sectors in the UK and it is vital that local people are able to maximise the employment opportunities available.
During the construction of the new facilities, students will be able to develop skills through a range work experience opportunities".
The new building is in keeping with Luton’s vision for a healthy, fair and sustainable town, where all its residents can thrive. Councillor Aslam Khan, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, Luton Council said: “Luton has an ambitious plan for growth and this new building will deliver enormous benefits to residents and businesses by helping them to attain the skills they need for future-proofed careers.”
Gilbert-Ash have been appointed as the main contractor for the development. Gilbert-Ash Managing Director, Ray Hutchinson said: “Gilbert-Ash has a reputation for delivering world class teaching facilities with a growing portfolio of excellent projects in the education sector. We view projects like this as creating opportunities for young people to receive the training they need to build rewarding careers through securing high value jobs.”
The new facility is scheduled to open in the Autumn term of 2024, ready for local people to upskill and access their career ambitions.