Multi-million pound investment at NRC Newtownabbey campus

The new build project will be completed in time for this September’s intake of students, and provide the College with a fabulous extension.

This will house a new Transport Skills Centre, new construction and engineering facilities, a refurbishment of the existing engineering and construction facilities, and new canteen with student social area.

The contract has been delivered by H&J Martin Ltd. Belfast. McAdam Design are the project managers for the new build and lead the integrated consultancy team made up of McAdam Design and JCP Consulting.

Deputy Director, Planning & Resources, Mrs Brenda Crotty said: “We are delighted with this new development. This project will provide an energy efficient environment for our students and will enable targeted support for the priority skills of construction and engineering.

“It will complement the successful centres of excellence already established at the college's Farm Lodge Campus.“

The accommodation will be serviced by a new highly efficient biomass heating system, fuelled by locally sourced and sustainable wood pellets.

A key feature of the Newtownabbey campus new build is the new Transport Skills Centre.

The state of the art training centre comprises a fully equipped workshop for heavy vehicles including rail and freight; industry recognized vehicle test equipment and vehicle training equipment.

The training support includes an online learning package for heavy vehicles including CDX to HGV trucks, buses and coaches to facilitate courses including the Heavy Vehicle Maintenance & Repair Course.

The new facilities were recently previewed by leading employers and existing apprentices.