Plumbing and Construction Centre Re-opens Following Fire

Swindon College’s newly refurbished Plumbing and Construction Centre has officially opened, with Principal Steve Wain joined by staff, students and key contractors involved in the project.

A large fire in January of this year saw the building reduced to little more than a steel frame, with staff and students quickly moved in to a temporary workshop – set up with the help of donations from a number of local employers.

Swindon College’s Operational Manager Chris Pailor oversaw the project said ‘’whilst we quickly managed to establish a site on campus for the temporary workshop we worked hard with our contractors Barnwood Construction to ensure that the building re-opened as quickly as possible.’’

This swift response meant that there was minimal disruption to students’ assignments as extensive repair works were carried out; with the newly refurbished building completed ahead of schedule.

Barnwood Construction Site Manager Richard Jolliffe, who was present at the opening said  ‘’It was a fantastic project to work on; and rather fitting given that it was for students studying for career in the construction trades.’’

The new building was also well received by students. Level 1 plumbing student Samuel Bobs, 18, said ‘’It’s great. Having been in the original building before the fire I can see that they’ve made some real improvements to the layout.’’

Student Matt Lawson, 16, was also impressed saying ‘’we have everything we need here. It’s fully equipped and we have easy access to all the tools we need to help us learn. It’s my first year at college and I’m really enjoying it.’’

Last week also saw prospective students have the opportunity to take a tour of the new building and the facilities on offer, as the college opened its doors for the first open event of the academic year.

For more information on Swindon College or for a list of plumbing and construction courses visit www.swindon.ac.uk or call 01793 491 591.