Construction of new Renewable Energies Academy to begin

Construction work on a new academy for renewable energy in Tyneside will begin next month, after Newcastle College Group (NCG) acquired a development site on the North Bank of the Tyne.

The site, which currently houses a disused cold store, will be demolished and redeveloped by Shepherd Offshore and Elliott Associates, with work due to be complete in time for courses to start in September.

The 20,000ft² centre, designed by Ryder Architecture, will include equipment – such as a computed numerically controlled machine and autoclave pressurising apparatus – related to manufacture, assembly and maintenance of offshore wind turbines.

The technology will enable Newcastle College to offer courses which incorporate engineering, computing technology and vocational science at levels up to and incorporating Foundation Degrees

The project is a collaboration between the college, major employers, local authorities, sector skills councils and other stakeholders in the renewable sector.

Bruce Shepherd, managing director of Shepherd Offshore, said: “We are delighted to continue our support for Newcastle College’s endeavours and see real benefit in providing first-class facilities for the college, existing companies and those looking to locate new capacity on the North bank of the river.”