Kier, a leading provider of construction and infrastructure services, has completed the £10m Degree Apprenticeship Centre for WMG and handed it over to the client, the University of Warwick.
The project was completed on time and has seen the construction of a three-storey 2,400m² development centre. It includes a number of teaching rooms, breakout space for students, employee offices, a laboratory and a wind tunnel to be used for transportation aerodynamics. The centre will provide up to 1,000 student places and provide training programmes up to Level 7 (equivalent to a Master’s Degree).
Throughout construction, Kier has committed a number of social value activities giving 8% of the contract value back through social value. This includes:
- Creating three part-time jobs
- Providing three apprenticeship opportunities (40 weeks in total)
- Hosting three work experience opportunities
- 10 people days of technical training
- 50 WMG Academy for Young Engineers student site visits
- 82% of spend with companies in a 50-mile radius
Mark Pausey, managing director at Kier Regional Building Central, said: “Handing this project over on time and on budget to the client is great. Throughout this project, we have engaged heavily with the local community and have enjoyed delivering social value to the area.
“We are thrilled to have reached this completion, I look forward to seeing the centre flourish and to continue our strong relationship with the University of Warwick and WMG.”
Sue Parr, Director of Degree Apprenticeships, WMG comments “The iconic WMG Degree Apprenticeship Centre, delivered in partnership with the Coventry & Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Midlands Engine, demonstrates a step change in design philosophy to make a world class study environment that is absolutely in keeping with modern delivery for industry. It has been wonderful to welcome the first intake of apprentices being able to provide a dynamic and professional environment in which to study and to develop the skills needed for their future careers and for the businesses in which they work.”
Tony Davies Senior Project Manager UoW Estates “This is a landmark project for the University and I’m delighted this striking design was delivered on time and within budget”