Kier signs contract for Great Yarmouth college revamp

Kier has signed a contract with the Department for Education (DfE) to deliver a major redevelopment of East Coast College’s Great Yarmouth campus.

The project, which will begin in May 2025, is part of the £1.5bn Further Education Capital Transformation Fund aimed at upgrading college facilities across England.

Awarded planning permission a year ago, the scheme will replace existing buildings with a low-carbon campus featuring a mock hospital ward, digital teaching suites, training kitchens, a lecture theatre and new sports and fitness facilities.

Students will also run an on-site hair and beauty salon and restaurant.

Construction is expected to complete by early summer 2028, with demolition of existing structures due to follow in autumn 2028.

The DfE-led project will support a wider skills drive in the region, enabling new course provision for both school leavers and adult learners.

The college has not yet confirmed the contract’s total value.

Kier Construction Eastern & Midlands managing director Mark Dady said the company would draw on its “extensive expertise in delivering first-class educational facilities”.

East Coast College principal and chief executive Paul Padda said the project would create “an exciting and vibrant community asset”.

The build will prioritise energy efficiency and sustainability and provide modern amenities for the wider community. Progress on the project will be documented on the college’s website.

Source: East Coast College press release