Calls for contractor at Blackpool College

Blackpool & Fylde College is looking for a contractor to build a 34,500 sq ft advanced technology centre at its Bispham campus.

The £5m contract will comprise the construction of the building, the associated landscaping, the subsequent demolition of the redundant Wyre building and provision of car parking.

Initial plans for the ATC which were drawn up by IBI Taylor Young suggest that the building will include technical engineering spaces such as workshops, fabrication and welding facilities, an engine test cell, rolling road and spray-booths, and an upper floor housing traditional classrooms. The building is intended to achieve a BREEAM 'excellent' energy rating.

The development of the ATC is part of a wider £10.3m improvements programme currently being undertaken by Blackpool & the Fylde College, which includes upgrading facilities within some of its existing buildings and extending its Construction Skills Centre.

The deadline for the receipt of tenders is 26 March 2014.