A former art and design centre at Stafford College is being transformed into a state-of-the-art Science & Technology Centre that will help shape the future of the UK’s manufacturing industry, thanks to Midlands-based G F Tomlinson.
Work is progressing well onsite as the construction firm undertakes a major £3.5 million refurbishment of the Broad Eye Building which will form part of an Advanced Manufacturing Hub in the Stoke and Staffordshire area.
The scheme has been outlined in the government’s Midlands Engine Strategy as integral to strengthening skills within the region and will provide learning facilities for students and local employers.
Andy Sewards, managing director from G F Tomlinson said that the construction firm was proud to be involved in such a high-profile project that would help to boost the UK’s growing manufacturing economy and help the college expand its portfolio of courses.
“The Broad Eye Building scheme is a complex refurbishment of a 1980s building that will transform the much-loved facility into a modern building to house some of the UK’s most advanced education and training courses,” said Andy.
“Once complete the building will include state-of-the-art robotic suites, science laboratories, 3D printing and laser technology, a LEGO® Education and Innovation Studio, office space and IT suites over four floors to support several new courses at the college.
“As a Midlands-based construction firm we are proud to be involved in a local project with national significance that will inspire young people into science, technology, engineering and manufacturing roles.”
Craig Hodgson, Vice Principal for Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group said: “We are excited about the new facility at Stafford College which will provide new career pathways, vocational and A-level courses and training spaces for local employers.
“The renovation, which is being part funded by the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), will provide expert facilities to support the growth of science and technology in the region and give our students the best learning experience possible.”