Mansfield MP Ben Bradley said he is delighted that West Notts College is one of 62 further education colleges to benefit from a share of more than £400m to upgrade buildings and transform campuses.

He said the cash boost will make sure even more people are supported to get the skills they need to get a good job.

The college is set to receive £4m to help fund a technology and skills hub at its Chesterfield Road site to secure high-value employment in priority skills areas.

Called the Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange, the £8m centre will deliver new courses in modern technology such as electric vehicle design and maintenance, and offer opportunities for local businesses to benefit from the technological expertise of both the college and Nottingham Trent University, as well as their networks of industrial partnerships to help them create well-paid jobs in Mansfield and the surrounding area.

An artist’s impression of the planned Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange.

The project has already been backed by £4m from Mansfield’s Towns Fund allocation. This match-funding from government, as part of its Further Education Capital Fund, will enable the scheme to progress to the next stage. It’s hoped work will commence in 2023, subject to planning approval, with the centre fully operational in 2024.

Ben said: “(It is) absolutely brilliant news that West Notts has been picked to benefit from this share of £400 million! I work closely with West Notts and I know this funding will help it fulfil its potential and deliver the best possible outcomes for students across Mansfield.

“It’s an honour to be able to shout up for Mansfield and Warsop as I am making sure we’re at the heart of Government’s levelling up agenda. I’m pleased my constituents will get the opportunity to receive high-quality training thanks to this investment. I’m looking forward to seeing the improvements!”

Andrew Cropley (above), principal and chief executive of West Nottinghamshire College, said: “I am delighted our funding bid has been successful so that we can push on with bringing this really important scheme to fruition.

“The Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange will help local businesses to embrace new technologies and create forward-looking, high-skilled and well-paid jobs for local people. This £8m facility will be a key component in transforming the local economy by preparing students for employment opportunities in emerging industries and further strengthening our partnerships with employers.

“This gives the college yet another opportunity to play its part in the future prosperity of Mansfield and surrounding communities.”