The multi-million-pound redevelopment of Oaklands College in St Albans is now underway – with a construction company run by former student Daniel Coyle now on site preparing the groundworks.
Daniel, who originally studied construction management at the college, is now director of Ryebridge Construction and returned to his former college this month to kick start the £51million project.
Daniel said: “I am very proud to be part of this project. I loved my time here as a student, so to be back at Oaklands and to be the first company on site for this massive redevelopment project is a real privilege.”
The Ryebridge team will be on site for 12 weeks – undertaking the enabling works which include demolition, site clearance and minor groundworks before the major building work commences, which will see the look and feel of Oakland Colleges’ Smallford campus be entirely transformed. There are plans to introduce new student accommodation, administration areas, teaching centres, workshops and a sports pavilion.
The focal point of the new development will be the specially purposed Gateway building, which will house a news student lounge, support services and refectory. The new sports pavilion will provide lockers, changing rooms, and a viewing platform for spectators as well as classrooms for theoretical lessons.
The enhancement programme will roll out over five years to minimise disruption to the campus and current students.
College Principal Zoe Hancock said: “We are really pleased that the work is underway and the journey to our new facilities has started. It is also great to work with a local contractor and support local businesses.”