A fitting solution to college needs

Feb 19 2008 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

A DARLINGTON company has provided an eco-friendly solution to a Teesside college’s costly problem.

Redcar and Cleveland College was keen to find an environmentally sensitive answer to £400,000 furniture requirements for its new £26m premises.

And Darlington-based Curtis Office came up with just the right brand of furniture and a bespoke answer to the college’s round-shape construction.

College principal Gary Groom said: “We had a vision from the very start of a building which would be as green as we could make it within our budget.

“Curtis came up with excellent solutions to fit our requirements.”

Managing director Roger Curtis said: “The furniture we are supplying has excellent environmentally sensitive credentials, which is what the college was looking for, and we have been able to supply them with faceted furniture to fit the shape of the building and bespoke desks for teaching staff.”

The new college is due to be opened in September this year on its main site on Corporation Road, Redcar.

Accommodation will include facilities for hair and beauty therapy, sports and fitness, health and care, art and design, construction and engineering and A-level provision.

The college will centre around first-class student facilities, including a large refectory and internet café, student services area and fitness suite.

The project is being financed by a combination of funding from the Learning and Skills Council, proceeds from the sale of land at the Connections Campus and a college loan.

Mr Groom said: “This is a very exciting time for the college, its staff, current and prospective students.

“Developing a whole new further education college for Redcar and Cleveland is a huge privilege and for most colleagues in further education is a once in a lifetime experience.

“I am sure that the new Redcar and Cleveland College is going to give a huge boost to everyone in the community and create a whole lot more civic pride.”