South Staffordshire College
Plans approved for new campus building
20 October 2022
We’re pleased to report that our plans for a new college for South Staffordshire College in the historic town centre of Tamworth have been granted planning approval. Part funded by the ‘Future High Streets Fund’, the project forms a key part of a wider council-led regeneration masterplan. The scheme replaces a redundant department store with a prominent new central campus building aimed at strengthening connections between the college and local community.
The site is located on a prominent corner facing the market square and a Grade I listed medieval church, and the design reflects both the historical grain prior to the 1960s development. The external palette features two materials – local brick in the main and metal elements to highlight key features. These include the main entrance, window reveals, and the perforated metal top floor and roof which is intended as the ‘Crown’ of the building.
Internally, spaces provide a contrast to the exterior, utilising a wide range of light, natural materials with exposed concrete elements. The building’s central space is the focal point, providing a semi-public setting for informal meetings and events alongside a café and salon which will be open to the public. Windows at street level offer a glimpse of life inside the building, including views into the double height automotive workshop.
Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt Director, Dominic Gaunt, said: “The ambition is to create a building which will strengthen connections between the College and the local community, forming a new social hub and stimulating economic growth in the town centre.”
Click here for more details on the project.