Construction of the new municipal and academic building in Elmer Square has resulted in a significant boost to local employment and training.

Wates Construction's delivery of The Forum Southend-on-Sea has seen the appointment of four project apprentices and the provision of 160 hours of work experience for local young people.

Work started on the £27 million project in February 2012 and the building will open to the public and students on Monday 30 September this year. The Forum Southend-on-Sea is a joint project between Southend Borough Council, the University of Essex and South Essex College. It will provide a new state-of-the-art public and academic library to replace Southend Central Library, learning and teaching facilities for the College and University as well as a new home for Focal Point Gallery.

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One of the young people to benefit includes South Essex College student, Sarah Serrano-Bello (18), who was invited to join Wates on site one day per week after completing a week’s work experience on the project. Her role enables her to apply her studies for a Level Three BTEC in Construction and the Built Environment in a practical hands-on way.

Sarah is joined by apprentice Lauren Kelly (20) from Leigh-on-Sea and placement student Anna-Louisa Yiannakas (21) from North London, both of whom work on the project full time whilst studying for a Business Administration NVQ and a Construction Management degree respectively.

The project has also provided part-time employment for previously unemployed former architect Sally Lock, who is not only working as the project’s document controller but also acts as a mentor for the three young women.

Full-time placement Construction Management student Anna-Louisa, commented: "It is fantastic to have had the opportunity to gain hands-on practical industry experience alongside my studies. The practical knowledge that I’ve learnt along the way has really enhanced my academic studies and broadened my skills in preparation for my future career."

(CD/IT)