A Worcester training centre is being extended so it can offer a wider range of construction courses.
The first part of a new electrical training centre was dropped into place at The Building Block in Shap Drive, Warndon, yesterday (Thursday, June 9).
A new reception area will follow shortly.
The Building Block, which is run by Worcester Community Trust, offers accredited training courses in plumbing, plastering, tiling and more, as well as a range of DIY skills courses.
The extension will allow the centre to add electrical courses to that list.
Funding came from Worcester City Council via the Towns Fund, a multi-million pound government grant helping to pay for a number of projects around the city.
Helen Davies, director of skills and training at the trust, said the centre asked for advanced funds in order to get the extension.
“We offer training to people of any age wanting to gain skills in the construction industry,” she said.
“We work hard to get as much funding as we can to offer courses free of charge if people aren’t in employment.
“If people are in work but fancy a career change and want to get into the construction industry, we also offer paid evening courses.
“At our consultation forum events we found great support and asked the question, ‘what does the city need?’
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“We know there’s a lack of construction skills so we’re here to give local residents the skills they need to get ahead in the industry.”
The Building Block also has plans to build a second training facility in Dines Green, which were backed by the city council last month.
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Cllr James Stanley said the project was a clear example of what can be achieved with relatively small amounts of money.
“These are areas, that we all have to admit, that have needed this type of funding for many, many years and the people who live in these areas in Dines Green, Ronkswood, and my own area in Gorse Hill, will undoubtedly benefit from this structured and focused investment,” he said.
“It’s hugely to be applauded. I think we are here to improve lives, and this is what this funding does.”
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