A developer hopes to turn the controversial King Alfred redevelopment in Hove into a training ground for the next generation of builders.

Karis Holdings wants at least ten per cent of the 450 people likely to be employed on the £220 million seafront development to be trained on-site.

The group, based in East Street, Brighton, is drawing up an employment framework with the Transport and General Workers' Union (T&G) before work begins.

It will insist its contractors provide work experience and on-the-job training to about 45 people to help plug the skills gap in the construction industry.

The partnership, believed to be the first of its kind in the UK, aims to create a steady supply of skilled workers for future building projects in Brighton and Hove.

Heather James, community co-ordinator for Karis Holdings, said: "The idea is you train people up to a certain level and they can then take their skills to other sites. In theory, you create a constant stream of skilled workers, which the construction industry is crying out for at the moment.

"We think this is a trail-blazing initiative, which could be used as a model for other building projects in the city."

Karis is in talks with the Learning and Skills Council and City College Brighton and Hove about linking the training project to recognised qualifications.

The partnership with the T&G will ensure the contracted building companies adhere to the highest health and safety standards.

Ms James said: "The construction industry should be a safe place to work. Unfortunately it has become known as a place where thick kids end up. What we are trying to do is change that perception and make sure everyone who enters the industry has access to proper working conditions.

"The T&G will help us monitor what is going on on-site."

Brighton and Hove City Council has chosen Karis as the preferred developer for the King Alfred scheme, which involves rebuilding the leisure centre in Kingsway.

The outline proposals include hundreds of homes in four tall towers. They have caused alarm among some residents.

Architects will begin drawing up detailed plans for the leisure centre site. Karis expects to submit a planning application in March next year.

The training partnership will be officially launched next month at a reception in Brighton hosted by sports minister Richard Caborn.

Thursday June 10, 2004