en.Wedoany.com Reported - UK construction company Willmott Dixon has been appointed for the launch phase of the redevelopment project at Coleg Gwent College's Crosskeys campus in Wales. Procured through the SEWSCAP framework, this phase will deliver a new three-storey teaching building covering 2,552 square metres, including an energy centre, advanced catering facilities, commercial and IT learning spaces, as well as dedicated examination areas, independent study zones, and staff areas.
The Crosskeys campus, originally opened in the 1960s and once a training centre for the mining industry, is being redeveloped to replace underperforming 1960s buildings with sustainable facilities that meet government guidelines. The project is supported by the Welsh Government's Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme. The new teaching building is designed to achieve operational net-zero carbon and aims for a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating.
The second phase is expected to commence in early 2028, subject to funding availability. This phase will deliver a new Block Z, housing hairdressing and beauty, health and social care, the ILS café, and further campus rationalisation works. This phase will proceed following the handover of Block Y in 2027 and the subsequent demolition of the existing Block B. Further rationalisation works are also planned as part of the funding application.
Willmott Dixon Director Ian Jones stated that the project is about creating opportunities and a sustainable future for the Crosskeys community, working closely with the Coleg Gwent team to advance a campus that serves current and future learners. He noted that the Crosskeys project strengthens the company's track record in delivering sustainable educational facilities, including Bridgend College's new operational net-zero carbon city centre campus, and the Passivhaus primary school and community centre built for Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, all of which demonstrate how modern learning environments can lead in carbon reduction.
Coleg Gwent Principal Nicola Gamlin added that this redevelopment is about creating opportunities for learners in the community, and the new facilities will ensure the campus continues to inspire and support students for many years to come. By investing in modern, sustainable spaces, the college helps learners gain the skills, confidence, and experience needed for future career success.
Willmott Dixon is working with architect Stride Treglown, continuing a partnership that includes the Passivhaus primary school and community centre in Glyn-coch, South Wales. The wider team includes AtkinsRealis as project manager, structural engineer, and M&E consultant, and Rider Levett Bucknall as quantity surveyor.
This contract further expands Willmott Dixon's portfolio in the further and higher education sectors, which includes Bridgend College's city centre campus and two major projects at Queen Mary University of London: a £48.8 million School of Business and Management and an information and teaching laboratory refurbishment.
Coleg Gwent is one of the largest further education colleges in Wales, with five campuses located in the Blaenau Gwent Learning Zone, Newport city, Crosskeys, the Torfaen Learning Zone, and Usk. The college offers vocational courses, apprenticeships, A-levels, and higher education opportunities. The Crosskeys campus provides A-levels, vocational qualifications, and apprenticeships in subjects including performing arts, catering, beauty, and manufacturing.
