Bournville College’s exciting new building project will definitely go ahead, it was announced by the national Learning and Skills Council last week.
Having been provisionally approved as one of only thirteen college new build projects nationally, Bournville College has now overcome the final hurdle and the countdown now begins to the long-anticipated opening in September 2011.
‘We were asked to reduce our project costs, which we have successfully done without compromising the design or quality of the building.’ Norman Cave, the Principal explained.
The ambitious plan is the cornerstone of the Longbridge £750 million redevelopment, aimed at boosting skills in an area in need of economic revival. A £66 million campus on a 4.2-acre site will now sit proudly in the heart of the new Longbridge town centre and will be a visible catalyst in the regeneration of the community, devastated by the demise of MG Rover.
‘This is great news for the College but even better news for the people of South West Birmingham. Everyone will benefit from our relocation. There has been a substantial lack of investment in this area and the College will be a catalyst for its revival, in terms of bringing jobs, training and education to the area. It’s a way out of recession for South West Birmingham.’ Norman continued.
‘We are grateful for the valuable support from the Birmingham and Solihull Learning and Skills Council, Advantage West Midlands, Birmingham City Council, our local MP Richard Burden, the business community and most of all the local constituents of Longbridge, Northfield and Bournville in particular and South West Birmingham in general.’ He added.
Jerry Blackett, Chief Executive of Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: ‘In the current climate, the new build will offer immediate benefits to the region such as jobs in construction but also in the long-term skills and education for generations to come.’
Councillor Neville Summerfield, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Birmingham City Council, said, “We are absolutely delighted with this approval. I thank the many people who have worked so hard for this outcome. The relocation of Bournville College is central to kickstarting the early phases of the regeneration of Longbridge and this project will be the first breath of life for the whole area. Congratulations to all those involved.”
