Students from Middlesbrough College have been treated to a VIP tour of one of the region’s key regeneration sites.
The group visited Centre Square where work is well under way on a 210,000 sq ft office development that will create a 21st century business destination in the heart of Middlesbrough.
The ultra-modern buildings are being delivered in phases, with construction well advanced on the first two, with three more to be built in a second phase.
And students from Middlesbrough College jumped at the chance to get a close-up look at the scheme courtesy of a ‘hard hat’ tour hosted by developer Ashall Projects and contractor Bowmer & Kirkland.
The nine-strong group of Level 3 students – from courses including construction, quantity surveying and brick laying – also had a chance to chat to some of those leading the scheme, including Ashall Director Mark Ashall and Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Director of Growth and Place Kevin Parkes.
Zoe Lewis, principal and chief executive of Middlesbrough College said: “We jumped at the chance to get students engaged with the project which is just one part of the growth taking placing on our doorstep.
“In 2020 the Government will introduce T Levels – key technical qualifications that will help students build knowledge and experience for the workplace, and employers to shape their learning.
“Middlesbrough College is trialling a key part of the T Levels programme, the 50-day industry placement that gives students’ hands-on experience in the workplace.
“This visit has given our students a fantastic insight, and we will be working with Bowmer & Kirkland to develop work placement opportunities for the students.”
Mark Ashall, director of Ashall Projects, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the students to what is one of the most significant development sites in the whole region, and I hope it will inspire them in the work they do in future.
“Centre Square is truly transformative for Middlesbrough, and a key element in the creation of a business hub fit for the 21st century.
“Middlesbrough’s far-reaching ambition is taking shape right now, with a development that will bring benefits for decades to come.”
Councillor Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Economic Development and Infrastructure, said “Centre Square is symbolic of our ambition and the confidence we have in our future.
“We are delivering the best office accommodation between Leeds and Newcastle, underscoring Middlesbrough’s status as the business and leisure heart of the Tees Valley.”
