Town’s college campus set to undergo £6m redevelopment scheme
A COLLEGE is poised to undergo a £6m re-development in what has been heralded as a new era for its staff and students.
A new technology centre is being created as part of an extension to the existing A block building at Harrogate College. The plans also include renovating and remodelling of the college’s rear block building, allowing space for improved facilities including catering, fashion and joinery workspaces.
The project will be partly funded by the York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Local Enterprise Partnership, as part of their aim to strengthen the local economy.
Harrogate College’s principal, Debra Forsythe-Conroy, said: “This redevelopment will represent the start of a new era for the college, one that aspires to match the stature and reputation for quality in the town of Harrogate.
“The investment supports our commitment to securing increased employment opportunities in the area and enhancing our ability to develop career packages which include a curriculum which meets local priorities, supports the visitor economy, heritage crafts, and cultural and business economies.”
The college said the new facilities would improve its curriculum and provide industry-standard training hair and beauty salons, a restaurant and bistro for catering courses and modern science laboratories.
Harrogate College is part of the Hull College Group.
Chief executive Gary Warke said: “The Hull College Group is delighted by this redevelopment which will make Harrogate College a centre of technical and professional excellence for the region in further and higher education.”
The Hull-based Hall Construction Group has been chosen to work on the re-development in Harrogate.
Hall’s contract manager, Terry Hill, said: “We are pleased to be working with the college on this scheme and hope that the facilities we provide will enrich the learning experiences of the young people in Harrogate.”