Galliford Try has handed over Merrist Wood College and University Centre, on behalf of education and training group Activate Learning, and the Department for Education.
The c.1,700 pupil place College and University Centre brings cutting‑edge teaching and learning facilities to the agricultural campus, including two modern teaching buildings and a large, purpose-built specialist greenhouse.
The project, funded through the £1.5bn Further Education Capital Transformation Fund, aims to expand the college’s curriculum offer and plays a key role in upgrading and modernising further education provision for post‑16 learners.
Located on a 400‑acre estate of woodlands and working farmland, the development also includes an equine science classroom, a commercial greenhouse, dedicated design, technology and arboriculture rooms, and spacious external workshop areas, designed to accommodate heavy machinery such as tractors, quad bikes and mowers.
The facilities will be equipped with immersive digital technologies to enable more flexible and innovative approaches to teaching, helping to transform the site into a contemporary and inspirational learning environment.
The final phase of demolition works is now underway. Gavin Bridge, Managing Director for Galliford Try Building Southern, commented: “This unique new facility brings together cutting‑edge learning spaces, immersive digital technology and a natural environment to support the next generation of land‑based professionals.
"It stands as a testament to what collaborative ambition and investment in education can achieve and this handover marks a proud moment for everyone involved.”
