The National Skills Academy for Environmental Technologies' hub, Blackburn College, has opened a brand new centre, complete with state-of-the-art facilities for students undertaking environmental technologies, construction, science, engineering and maths courses.
The Sir Bill Taylor Futures Centre, named after the college's Chairman of the Board and former leader of Blackburn and Darwen Council, was opened on Friday 13 September. Costing £7m, the centre includes a replica eco-house, for students on National Skills Academy environmental technology courses, advanced manufacturing workshops, a TV studio, radio station and a cinema.
These world-leading facilities have enabled Blackburn College, with the support of the National Skills Academy, to extend their existing built environment curriculum to include; solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, heat pump and rainwater harvesting training and assessment.
Cathryn Hickey, executive director of the National Skills Academy for Environmental Technologies, said: "The quality of the facilities available at Blackburn College is second to none, and are able to meet current and future delivery requirements in an exciting learning environment.
Officially opened by Blackburn College Principal and CEO, Ian Clinton, guests at the launch event included local employers, press, dignitaries and the Deputy Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Council.