Esh Construction has been appointed to build an £8.9 million New College Durham extension.

The firm will develop the new Centre for Higher and Technical Level Skills on behalf of New College Durham.

The development will provide a collaborative and integrated learning space for the delivery of higher and technical level skills qualifications. It will be constructed as an extension to the College's modern state of the art facilities.

Designed by Ryder Architecture, the building will include adaptable spaces and technologies making it more flexible for different educational delivery needs. A glazed central atrium will form the ‘heart of the building’ with work and breakout zones to encourage interaction and creativity. Specialist spaces for healthcare qualifications, and digital and science labs will feature across the two floors.

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Andy Broadbent, Principal and Chief Executive of New College Durham, said: "This is a very exciting project which will enhance our teaching delivery and provision across a range of higher and technical level qualifications, while being designed with the flexibility to allow us to adapt to new subjects which will arise in the future.

"Nationally, there is a widening skills gap across many sectors and the Government has stated that students should develop the knowledge and technical skills required for skilled careers. Students need to aspire to study these subjects and providing a modern and innovative learning environment will help encourage this."

The appointment of Esh Construction will provide a wealth of benefits for the area through the employment of a local workforce and procurement of a local supply chain.