Prior to the festive break, a symbolic groundbreaking ceremony marked a major step forward in the construction of our new, purpose-built £17m Future Technologies Centre (FTC).
Members of the Bradford College management team were joined by representatives from Morgan Sindall Construction and the Department for Education to celebrate construction commencing on site.
The project received £15million from the Department for Education Further Education Capital Transformation Fund (FECTF) in October 2022, boosted by a £2million College contribution.
Commenting at the ceremony, Sarah Towan (Vice Principal Recruitment & Communications) said: “We are delighted to be breaking ground on this exciting new development for Bradford College, with engineering and motor vehicle skills development high on the agenda for local employers and the regional economy. This cutting-edge facility will provide a highly-skilled workforce for the careers of the future, so today marks an important moment for everyone involved in the project.”
This important milestone signifies the start of phase two of the FTC project. Having previously undertaken extensive site surveys and the demolition of a derelict mill on Thornton Road, Morgan Sindall is now undertaking construction of the state-of-the-art, four-storey building, which will house modern automotive, digital, and engineering training here at Bradford College.
The facility will offer students skills in new technologies, such as modern automotive and digital engineering, electric/hybrid vehicles and advanced manufacturing. The Centre will be vital in supporting the growth of technology and low-carbon skills capability within West Yorkshire.
Once completed in 2026, the Bradford College Automotive and Digital Engineering Department will relocate from Bowling Back Lane to the premises, with as many as 650 students potentially enrolling at the Centre.
Ben Hall, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction’s Yorkshire business, added: “We’re thrilled to deliver what will be a game-changing new facility for Bradford. As part of our delivery of this project, we look forward to undertaking social value initiatives that benefit the people of Bradford, ensuring this new facility has a positive impact on the City way ahead of opening.”
Social value for the area is a key focus of the project, with Morgan Sindall set to deliver a strong economic and skills legacy to the local community. The plan will prioritise local spend, support apprenticeships, and deliver T Level placements, work experience and masterclasses to Bradford College students. This social value programme will deliver a minimum 30% of contract value.
Over the last two years we have secured nearly £32 million in funding, with the Future Technologies Centre central to an ambitious estates strategy designed to nurture inspiring careers in sectors that support regional economic growth.
(FTC artist’s impression kindly provided by Bond Bryan Architects)
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