A COLLEGE has officially launched the start of development on its new advanced technology centre.

Development of Central Sussex College’s new Advance Technology Centre is now underway and to celebrate, the college’s headteacher Sarah Wright was joined by Henry Smith MP for Crawley, Heather Binning from Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Steve Sawyer from Manor Royal Business Improvement District and Vic Allen, from Allen Wilson Group.

Once completed the Advance Technology Training centre will provide modern, industry standard learning environments and practical workshops for the next generation of individuals working or aspiring to work in the expanding engineering, technology and environmental technology sectors.

The five month project, which sees the redevelopment and extension of an existing college site is expected to provide an additional 770 places for school leavers, apprentices and adult learners in areas associated with manufacturing, electronics, and specialist areas of environmental technology such as photovoltaic, solar thermal, biomass, wind turbine technology, thermography and insulation..

Sarah Wright said: “We’re delighted work on our new Advance Technology Centre has started as it’s such an exciting development for the college.

“We’re confident that the new facilities and training on offer will be much sought after as employers in the engineering and technology sector recognise the need to enhance the skills of their current and future workforces.

“The fantastic new facilities will provide a modern and progressive environment in which students can develop their work skills and engage with industry experts to develop theoretical knowledge and working practices in technology and the low carbon economy.”