Major construction work is underway in central Glasgow after a college secured permission to develop two new campuses in the city.
The City of Glasgow College is looking to redevelop its existing sites on Cathedral Street and Thistle Street, and Sir Robert McAlpine has been installed as the main contractor after beating off competition from Bam for the job, reports Construction Enquirer.
At a total cost of £228 million, the project is sure to provide a significant boost to the education institution's infrastructure as well as improving the overall look of Glasgow. Built over 700,000 sq ft, the development is set to feature two new buildings that will be vital in providing facilities to students for years to come.
Some 170 construction jobs are expected to be created as a result of the scheme, including a minimum of 40 apprenticeships. This could be all young people in Glasgow need to encourage them to set off on the path towards a career in construction.
The college was formed in 2010 following the merger of the Metropolitan, Nautical and Central colleges that were already in place, making it a larger and stronger institution as one.
College principal Paul Little told the Herald Scotland: "By 2016, the Glasgow skyline will be transformed as the construction of our stunning new campuses is completed. Glasgow will have a powerhouse of skills at the heart of the city centre and a significant part of the River Clyde will be regenerated, reflecting the college's commitment to providing world-class education facilities."
Once the campuses are up and running, they will provide a base for about 1,200 staff and are predicted to serve some 40,000 students each year. As such, they might become a focal point of Glasgow and something of an iconic development.
But for now the focus is on construction and a number of job opportunities will crop up in the city over the next three years as contractors make the dream of these new college campuses become a reality.
