GRAHAM Construction has completed work on a new Technical college in Nine Elms, London.

The new 10,000 sq m building, acts as a science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths (STEAM) centre and provides ten storeys for educational space used in STEAM courses.

GRAHAM was appointed as the lead contractor by South Bank Colleges and works on-site for the new college commenced in 2021. The project was procured through Pagabo's £10 billion Major Works Framework.

The new building's features include, a range of formal, informal and social learning spaces as well as workshops, break-out areas and a cafe.

The design was delivered by architects Holmes Miller, working collaboratively with technical advisors Rock Townsend Architects and Architecture PLB. Designed to be low carbon in operation, the campus has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating. Peter Marsh Consulting Ltd was the Project Manager and Employer’s Agent for the construction and build-out of the scheme.

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The new college is part of a wider £100m two-phase London South Bank Technical College project. The second phase will consist of two additional college buildings that will support teaching for health, life sciences and business education. The second phase of the scheme is set to complete in 2025.

Commenting on the new building, Rob Joyce, GRAHAM Regional Director, said: "We are proud to have been part of delivering London's newest college, which is the first of its kind in the UK since 2007. London South Bank Technical College and STEAM centre will provide vital and diverse hi-tech skills, helping to fill the growing STEAM skills gap in London and the UK.

"Collaborating with an outstanding project team, we set out to deliver a forward-thinking, supportive and innovative learning environment that will open up direct routes into higher education, apprenticeships and jobs, boosting employment opportunities for thousands of students and helping them thrive in the future in highly-skilled positions."

Reflecting on their involvement, Mariyam Afnida, Associate at Holmes Miller, said: "This flagship project, as well as providing excellent educational facilities, has also become a landmark for the Nine Elms area thanks to its distinctive bronze anodised aluminium-clad tower. The extensive use of glazing and large feature windows bring in generous natural daylight and expansive views that we hope will make the building a pleasure to learn in – it has certainly been rewarding to have played a key role in delivering it."