Member Article

Leeds bid for specialised HS2 engineering college

Council leaders want to bring a new college to Leeds that will train the next generation of engineers for the construction of HS2.

Central Government has today begun searching for the best city to base the college and Leeds is hoping to put itself at the forefront.

The council said in a statement: “The college will deliver specialised training and qualifications needed to construct high speed rail, which will not only benefit HS2 but other future infrastructure projects in the region.”

The first new incorporated further education college in over 20 years, it will offer technical training ensuring HS2 can be built by skilled British workers including; rail engineering, environmental skills and construction.

Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor Keith Wakefield said: “Bringing the college here would build on expertise already in the region creating up to 2000 new apprenticeships and an incredible lasting legacy of engineering.

“HS2 is about far more than just a railway line. We need a new north-south railway first and foremost, but it will also bring jobs, growth and regeneration to Leeds and the region.

“The college will serve as a national centre building relationships with a network of affiliated facilities, including existing colleges, private training providers, HE institutions and major supply networks.

“It also has a strong industrial rail heritage with York playing a key role and Leeds station serving around 100,000 passengers a day.

“Furthermore, the region is increasing its reputation for creativity with the digital and analytical industry soon to be bolstered by the Open Data Institute that will encourage open data culture boosting both the economy and environment.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .