Contract to build new £9m facility at Carlisle College awarded

Carlisle College is embarking on Phase 2 of its Campus re-development transforming its buildings into an innovative high-tech sustainable learning environment.

Following a successful Tender Process, Kier Construction has been selected as the preferred contractor to build the new teaching facility at Carlisle College.

Seven tenders were received by the College. The decision to appoint Kier Construction was based on the quality and commercial aspects of their proposal.

The new facilities are being mainly funded by Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) and Cumbria County Council.

Moira Tattersall, Principal at Carlisle College Said:

“We are delighted to have reached the stage of awarding contracts for the new build. This capital investment will enable Carlisle College to further develop its reputation as a safe and successful learning environment providing excellent facilities.”

Steve Broomhead, Chief Executive, NWDA said:

“Strengthening further education in Cumbria is vital to transforming the regional economy. The NWDA works hard to ensure education, access to skills and quality training play a key role in helping develop the knowledge, skills and creativity required to give the region a competitive edge.”

Work will commence on Monday 19th April with initial activities including the installation of temporary site boundary around the first phase of demolition which will include the buildings on Strand Road, Harrington Street and Compton Street.

Cllr Jill Stannard, Chief Executive, Cumbria County Council said:

“This is a significant investment in the College’s new facilities and also a significant investment in the education of young people in Carlisle and across North Cumbria. The way that the County Council, NWDA and Carlisle College have worked together has been a triumph.”

Neighbours of the College will receive letters to inform them of the imminent works. Kier Construction operates within the bounds of the Considerate Constructors Scheme and as such will comply with an eight point Code of Considerate Practice relating to standards in Consideration, the Environment, Cleanliness, Good Neighbouring, being respectful, Safety, Responsibility and Accountability.

Kevin Cottam, Kier Construction Director comments:- 

“We are delighted to be involved in the development of yet another learning environment in Carlisle.  This site will have its challenges but we look forward to completing a safe and successful project and to seeing the fruits of our construction activity in service to the young people of Carlisle.  Our first aim is to establish a safe and environmentally sound construction site and to do all that we can to be a good neighbour.  We aim to keep the local residents, potential students and people of Carlisle up to date with the construction progress over the next year or so."

Once the site boundary has been secured, the buildings will be stripped of wiring and plumbing, before the demolition. This first phase is expected to take four weeks to complete.