The go-ahead has been given for a £28.4 million " learning village" to transform education and vocational training in Herefordshire.

The scheme, which will see the complete redevelopment of Herefordshire College of Technology, has received the final approval from the Learning and Skills Council.

The first phase, the redevelopment of its Folly Lane campus, will include a new technology block to offer a range of vocational courses.

These will include brickwork, furniture making, carpentry and joinery, electrical installation, plumbing, painting and decorating, mechanical and electrical engineering, computer aided design, computer maintenance, and sound technology.

The first phase will also deliver a suite of seminar rooms and information technology facilities for use by local businesses.

Confirmation of funding for the second phase is expected early in 2006 and this will see a new large modern teaching block with training kitchens and restaurant, hair, beauty and holistic therapy salons.

Ian Peake, the college's acting principal, said: "Our standards of teaching and learning at HCT are high, and our students consistently achieve good results.

"We can now look forward to an even brighter future when we will be able to provide excellent learning facilities for all and further develop our work with employers."

Alan Curless, executive director of the local LSC, said: "I'm proud to have worked in partnership with Herefordshire College of Technology on a project which has the scope and ability to transform the county's economy.

"Not only will it ensure that local employers have access to the skills they need to grow their businesses, but it will also act as a catalyst for further inward investment.

"The realisation of this four-year project will raise participation levels and quality standards, as well as meet current and future learning needs."