HPA was appointed for Education Architecture to design a state-of-the art £3.38M Advanced Manufacturing Technology Centre (AMTC) to be based at Furness College, in Barrow.
The objective of the centre was to provide students with the skills and training required by some of the area’s biggest employers, such as BAE Systems, Siemens, GSK, Kimberly Clark, and Centrica.
The 14,000 sq ft centre hosts engineering and advanced manufacturing research, as well as rapid prototyping and high voltage test laboratories. It allows the college to recruit up to 1,150 apprentices in engineering and advanced manufacturing at any one time.
The AMTC delivers Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths related subjects with a focus on engineering skills development. It supports the estimated £1bn of investment that will be made in advanced manufacturing by companies in the Furness area over the next five years, including investment in infrastructure, buildings and processes for BAE Systems Maritime Submarines, and the new bio-pharmaceuticals plant by GSK in Ulverston.
“The new centre will provide an inspiring, rewarding and inclusive environment for all learners. Employers recognise the need for investment in training and skills and have given this project their full support. It will meet the demand for specialist technically trained staff.”
– David Green, director of capital project for Furness College.
