Technology hub takes ex-college full circle

A 92-year-old former mining and technical college building will be transformed into a state-of-theart institute of technology.

Barnsley College’s university centre on Church Street will undergo a £15m transformation to become South Yorkshire’s Institute of Technology.

It will become one of 21 such hubs nationally which provide qualifications in engineering and manufacturing, construction, digital, healthcare sciences, science and media.

The centre will be fully renovated to provide a new atrium, study zones set over three new mezzanine floors with a new glazed roof above and a modern café and breakout area at ground floor level.

Contractors GF Tomlinson is set to start construction on the 92-year-old building this month.

The project has been funded through a combination of Department for Education investment and college capital funds.

Originally the Barnsley Mining and Technical College, the Church Street building cost £110,012 to build and furnish in 1932.

It has had various uses but has maintained an educational focus throughout its lifespan – coming full circle as the new home of higher-level technical qualifications in engineering, construction and digital and IT subjects.

David Akeroyd, Barnsley College’s principal and chief executive officer, said it was a major development.

He said: “This is a real landmark moment for higher-level education in Barnsley and the wider region, and we’re pleased to get contracts signed and now be able to deliver on our vision.

“The building work is set to start in earnest in May. What’s particularly important to us is that we retain our original concept of completely transforming the inside of the building into a future-focused learning environment for our Level 4 and Level 5 technical provision.”