Work started today on a new £3.6m construction skills centre which is being built at Wiltshire College’s campus in Trowbridge.

A groundbreaking ceremony involving students, staff and representatives from contractor Rydon Construction took place to mark the start of the work.

The two storey facility, expected to be completed in September 2014, is replacing two buildings at the campus and will over an increased range of building, electronics, plumbing and carpentry courses for those attending Wiltshire College.

Di Dale, Wiltshire College principal, said: “This is a really important day for the college. The new construction skills centre will enable the college to provide an outstanding teaching environment for a wide range of construction skills well into the future.

“The new facilities will benefit and inspire both employers, apprentices, students and staff alike and I am really looking forward to watching the new building grow and welcoming students to the new centre in September.”

During the building of the centre, Rydon, plans to offer work experience opportunities to Wiltshire College’s pupils.

“We are keen to give a taster to the students who’ll be using the centre. They can see how everything is done and spend some time with the guys on site, in a safe environment, and then come in the office and see the other side of our work,” said Paul Barber, Rydon’s south west regional director.

“We are delighted to be working alongside Wiltshire College to provide an excellent new learning environment for the next generation of our industry’s workforce.”

The company has previously done work at the campus, building its new £2.5m learning resource centre, library and entrance which were officially opened earlier this year by explorer David Hempleman-Adams.