Bournemouth & Poole College to submit plans to transform its Lansdowne campus
Bournemouth & Poole College is to submit a planning application seeking approval to transform its Lansdowne campus into a learning environment suitable for the next 25 years.
The plans seek to deliver some of the highest-quality education facilities in the country, following investment from the government’s FE Capital Transformation Fund.
The Department of Education (DfE) funding will be used to improve much of the Lansdowne campus educational facilities, providing increased opportunities for future learners, while fitting in with the historic landmark Clock Tower Building.
Phil Sayles, Principal of Bournemouth & Poole College, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded government funding, which will future-proof our facilities for future generations.
"It will ensure the college can continue to provide many local people with the skills required to access aspirational and fulfilling careers, while supporting local businesses with a growing pool of highly-skilled and trained workers.
“The proposals for Lansdowne campus include best-in-class facilities, enabling students to develop the most in-demand skills in BCP and beyond, including media, cyber security, visitor economy and hospitality.
"Our plans to upgrade the campus are a critical part of keeping BCP on the map as a prosperous, forward-looking economic hub, delivering a bright future for businesses and workers.”
If permission is granted by BCP Council, the DfE will manage the transformational programme together with construction partners, Kier.
Contractors and planners have engaged local parties to ensure the design is sympathetic to the surrounding area and college grounds.
Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education Robert Halfon said: “We are transforming colleges like Bournemouth and Poole’s Lansdowne campus, creating world-class facilities to promote the skills of the future through our FE Capital Transformation Fund.
“Every student deserves access to high-quality education and training so they can climb the ladder of opportunity to gain the skills needed for a fulfilling and successful career, whilst helping the economy thrive.”
The planning application, which is soon to be submitted, provides further details on the scheme. Facilities will include hair and barbering salons, beautician rooms, a new restaurant and associated professional kitchens, a sports hall and gym facility, flexible-use classrooms and IT rooms, CGI suites, and social areas for students. There will also be huge improvements to the outdoor spaces to create a campus atmosphere.
If approved, the project will be complete by 2026.
READ MORE: Dorset: Bournemouth & Poole College sees apprentice rise
Image: An artist's impression of a transformed Lansdowne campus
