A Black Country college has secured more than £12 million of funding for its rapidly expanding campus.
Dudley College is creating a new ‘learning quarter’ in the heart of the town which will include ‘Dudley Evolve’ – a gym, sports hall, 180-seat theatre and a hair and beauty salon, housed over four levels in a “modern, open environment”.
Funding for the project has been provided by Barclays Corporate and Investment Banking division which will also support the development of Dudley Sixth, a new A Level centre which will form part of the ‘learning quarter’.
Birmingham-based construction company ISG is building Dudley Evolve and is due to complete the project by September 2012.
Michelle Murray, relationship director for Barclays Corporate and Investment Banking division in the Midlands, said: “Dudley College has a strong management team with a clear vision for their growth.
“The funding for this project will enable the college to achieve their strategic growth plans at the same time as contributing to the economic development of the town centre.
“I have been amazed by how quickly the new building is taking shape and looking forward to seeing the completed project later in the year.”
Lowell Williams, principal of Dudley College, said: “It’s an exciting time for the college as we broaden our offering to the student population and the wider Dudley community and will help kick-start the regeneration plans for Dudley.”
