Willmott Dixon has been selected by the Department for Education (DfE) to spearhead a significant £48.8 million project aimed at creating a net carbon zero in operation (NCZiO) campus at Wigan & Leigh College. This initiative will transform the college’s Parsons Walk Campus, accommodating over 3,400 students daily with a state-of-the-art learning environment.
Procured through the DfE construction framework, this ambitious project is designed to achieve a 40% biodiversity net gain, featuring extensive soft landscaping. The campus will include photovoltaic solar panels to harness renewable energy, underlining a strong commitment to sustainability.
Upon completion in 2027, students will benefit from a modern educational infrastructure comprising seminar rooms, IT suites, laboratories, and new amenities such as a restaurant, a florist, and a salon operated by students. This forward-thinking development is expected to significantly enhance the educational experience and skill set of its students.
London-based Willmott Dixon, with its office in Oldham, is entrusted with executing the project while ensuring that the existing college remains fully operational. The construction process will involve phased demolition of the current School of Arts Building, paving the way for the new structure. Additionally, the existing college building and tower blocks will be demolished once the redevelopment is complete.
The initiative follows a successful NCZiO school project completed by Willmott Dixon at Tarleton Academy in Preston last year. The company has shown its capability in similar projects, such as the Brian Clarke Academy in Oldham in 2023, and is currently working on Bridgend College Town Centre Campus, also set to be NZCiO.
Anna Dawe, Principal and Chief Executive at Wigan & Leigh College, expressed her enthusiasm: “This is an exciting time for the college. The new campus is part of the college’s future commitment to skills delivery in Wigan Borough and a major part of our net-zero strategy. We believe the campus redevelopment will inspire and equip our students for the seamless transition into the world of work and future skills needs.”
Michael Poole-Sutherland, Director for Willmott Dixon in the North, added, “Our team of education and sustainability sector specialists will bring a wealth of experience to Wigan & Leigh College, with the 14,000 people who choose to study here every year being at the heart of everything we do. We share the college and the DfE’s commitment to creating a catalyst for changing lives for local people and are committed to investing in local skills and organisations, with a focus on opportunities for young and unemployed Wigan residents.”
As part of the project, the company will create 200 weeks of apprenticeships, support 15 T-level placements, deliver 180 weeks of work experience, and engage hundreds of local students. This investment in human capital is expected to foster local talent and provide numerous opportunities for the Wigan community.
This £48.8 million project at Wigan & Leigh College epitomises a significant stride towards sustainable and forward-thinking education infrastructure. With a strong emphasis on environmental impact and skill development, the new campus is poised to become a beacon of modern learning and community investment.