Barnsley College secures £1.8m funding

The second phase of redevelopment at the Church Street site can now progress, and will see the conversion of the remaining 22,000 sq ft into a dedicated higher education facility.

Funding was secured from the Office for Students’ Capital Fund and will deliver modern teaching rooms, study areas, collaborative spaces, and improved accessibility.

The upgrade will focus on retaining the building’s heritage features whilst integrating smart tech such as LED lighting with daylight sensors, smart controls, and insulation improvements intended to reduce carbon impact.

The project forms part of the College’s long-term estate strategy and strengthens capacity to deliver programmes linked to regional and national skills priorities.

GF Tomlinson completed part one of the redevelopment in October, turning the former Barnsley Mining and Technical College into the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology, supported by AECOM.

The project was delivered in partnership with the college, Sheffield Hallam University, the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre, DN Colleges Group, the Sheffield College and RNN Group.

The upgrades to the college will accommodate around 1,000 additional learners each year.

Barnsley College principal and chief executive David Akeroyd said: “This investment marks a significant step forward for higher education in Barnsley.

“It strengthens our commitment to expanding opportunities for local people to gain the skills they need for rewarding and future-focused careers.

“The redevelopment of the Church Street site is about creating a modern, inspiring environment that matches the quality and ambition of our higher education offer.

“This next phase will increase our capacity, widen access and support growth in priority sectors that are vital to South Yorkshire’s economy.

“We are proud to preserve and modernise this important heritage building. By choosing sustainable refurbishment, we are protecting its character while equipping it for the needs of today’s learners, employers and our community.”