Keys handed over to the new £12m University Centre Rotherham

Construction manager for Wilmott Dixon, Alan Neal and director of higher education and skills, Jana Checkley

RNN Group, which runs Rotherham College, received the keys to the £12 million development from contractors Willmott Dixon.

The campus will offer degrees and professional training qualifications from September.

RNN higher education director Jana Checkley said: “UCR has been a fantastic journey and as an organisation we are exceptionally proud to have worked with Willmott Dixon on such a beneficial project.

“The new university centre has been built to an extremely high standard and we look forward to moving in our state-of-the-art facilities, ready for UCR to open its doors this autumn to students of all ages and career aspirations.”

Construction students from RNN’s three colleges visited the building site in the past 12 months to gain an insight into large developments.

Alan Neal, Willmott Dixon construction manager, said: “We are excited to be handing over the keys to this brilliant new university centre.

“One aspect we are proud of is how we’ve been able to work closely with companies in and around Rotherham to ensure as many as possible were involved with the building work.

“University Centre Rotherham will provide important skills that will benefit the local economy for years to come and we hope it will also encourage many students to choose a career in construction.”

Rotherham Borough Council leader Cllr Chris Read said: “Having UCR here in Rotherham is part of the town’s regeneration and forms a key part of our vision and masterplan to enhance where we live.

“This university centre will help bridge the skills gap we have which is currently holding the town back.”