Walsall

This is the flagship project of a major regeneration programme to establish Walsall as a hub for business, learning and enterprise. Built near the college’s existing town centre site, it plays an important role in creating a new urban image for the Midlands town. The development comprises an extensive new landmark building integrating learning facilities with the essential infrastructure of a thriving modern campus. With input from multiple stakeholders (public and private), it is a model for partnership working, promoting engagement with employers and the wider community. The campus is located on the axis of a new public thoroughfare, set back from the streetline on a landscaped plaza. It is organised over five levels into two main wings: vocational (west); general learning (east). The floorplates provide optimum efficiency, accessibility and flexibility. The wings feed off a central hub arranged around a five storey atrium and new public plaza. Its network of shared facilities includes offices, retail, catering and leisure units and a large learning resource centre. It is also a ‘shop window’ for the college’s professional academies, which are equipped to the highest industry standards.