Net zero educational boost for South Wales

Willmott Dixon has secured the £19.3 million first phase of Coleg Gwent’s redevelopment of its Crosskeys Campus in Newport, transforming the site into a modern, net zero carbon learning environment for one of Wales’ largest further education colleges.

Procured via the SEWSCAP framework, the first phase will deliver a new three-storey teaching building alongside a new energy centre, state-of-the-art catering facilities, business and IT learning spaces, and dedicated areas for exams, independent study and staff use.

This project has received funding and support from the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme and forms part of a multi-phase masterplan to transform the Crosskeys Campus, which first opened in the 1960s as a training hub for the mining industry. The masterplan replaces under-performing buildings with sustainable facilities aligned with Welsh Government guidance.

The new building is designed to be net zero carbon in operation and is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.

Nicola Gamlin, Principal of Coleg Gwent, said: “This redevelopment is about much more than just buildings; it’s about creating opportunities for current and future learners across our communities. We are proud of the role that the Crosskeys Campus has played over generations, and these new facilities will ensure it continues to inspire and support students for many years to come. By investing in modern, sustainable spaces, we are helping learners to gain the skills, confidence and experiences they need to succeed in their future careers.”