Public get glimpse of Burnley’s new £9m. University Technical College

The ambitious project, which is planned for the Weavers’ Triangle, will be a centre specialising in engineering and construction sectors.

Representatives from Training 2000, which is leading the project, joined Burnley Council, Barnfield Construction, local employers and universities to answer questions about the plans.

Council leader Charlie Briggs was at the event showcasing plans for the UTC which is earmarked for Victoria Mills in Trafalgar Street.

He said: “It was to give people in Burnley the confidence that this project is going forward and introduce people to what is going on in there.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain technical skills which will match the requirements of local employers in the highly skilled, advanced manufacturing sectors - skills which will lead to real jobs with local employers at the end of the training.

“Burnley makes things and it makes things exceptionally well, with over 20% of our workforce in highly skilled trades. Training our younger generation in this highly skilled sector will help fill the skills gap, and secure the next generation workforce to support the town’s businesses, and create a valuable asset which will attract new businesses in the future.

“I am 100% sure it will be a fantastic thing for Burnley.

Steve Gray, chief executive of Training 2000, was at the event talking to visitors about what will be on offer at the college.

He said: “Our UTC will specialise in the engineering and construction sectors and will offer a unique and interactive learning experience that will encourage and engage young people and support employers future skills needs.

“Our plans for the UTC have been a long time in development and we are delighted to be at this stage of the process, but want to make sure that people understand exactly what it is we are trying to achieve.”

Visions Learning Trust will provide education for 14-to-19-year-olds in an innovative new format that puts employers at its core.