Kendal College receives £1 million NWDA grant

30 November 2009

The Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) has revealed that Kendal College will receive a £1million boost to fund the purchase of adjacent brownfield land. This purchase will enable the college to build a new facility and expand its curriculum.

Architect's impression of the proposed new facility

The purchase of the brownfield land, known as ‘Wildman Street’ will enable the college to develop its digital and creative curriculum, while increasing the provision for Further and Higher Education within the area. It will form part of a wider regeneration process at the North end of the town.

The new development will form part of a ‘campus’ embracing Kendal Museum, the 14th Century Castle Dairy and the Allan Building to create one joined-up facility.

The first phase includes a multi-purpose space for students studying performing arts, dance and music, facilities for sound, lighting and recording with workshops, changing facilities, toilets and reception. 

This follows the College’s award winning development on its main site, which was completed in November 2008 and now provides world-class facilities in vocational training and education.

Steven Broomhead, Chief Executive, Northwest Regional Development Agency said:

“The last few weeks have been really hard for the residents and businesses of Cumbria, but I hope this good news highlights that the area is open for business and development plans continue across all parts of the community. The purchase of the brownfield land is just the first step towards increasing the number of higher level skills over a five year period and increasing opportunities for self employment.”

Graham Wilkinson, Principal of Kendal College said:

“We cannot thank the Northwest Regional Development Agency’s Chief Executive, Steven Broomhead and his team enough for supporting this project, which will transform this priority area of the College and will provide world class facilities.  Steven has a great understanding and passion for skills in the North West and his influence has been quite visionary.”

This project has also been supported by Kendal Futures Board and the Eden and South Lakeland Delivery Board.

Mandy Dixon, Chair, Eden and South Lakeland Delivery Board said

“This is a magnificent regeneration project for the northern part of Kendal which pulls together three historical buildings and yet will provide a future workforce in one of South Lakeland and Eden’s priority industries.”