It’s exciting times ahead for the staff and students at South West College in Enniskillen with the prospects of a brand new Campus drawing ever closer. The Minister for Employment and Learning Stephen Farry today attended a South West College Enniskillen Campus event to unveil the first images of the new proposed Erne Campus development. The new Campus, to be situated at the former Erne Hospital site in Enniskillen, is planned to contain 8,000m. sq. of state-of-the-art educational and community facilities costing in the region of £25 million.
Speaking at the event the Minister for Employment and Learning Stephen Farry said; “The development of the new college represents both a vote of confidence in the local economy and a long term commitment to ensuring that the people of this area have access to the very best which further education has to offer.
“The development of knowledge and skills is critical to growing the economy and Further Education Colleges are central to that development. The ambitious plans unveiled today envisage a campus which will provide state of the art accommodation and facilities. I congratulate all those involved in getting the project to this stage and assure you of my Department’s continued support.”
Malachy McAleer, Director South West College added his delight that the development is steadily progressing stating;
“South West College Governing Body and staff are delighted that progression along the journey to a new and much anticipated Erne Campus continues at pace. Minister Farry and his Department are key supporters and SWC thanks the Minister for his efforts; and for joining us to celebrate the achievement of a key milestone with the appointment of the Integrated Consultancy Team led by Hamilton Architects”.
He added; “College staff will continue to support the Consultancy Team in their efforts to achieve an iconic, futuristic Educational Campus on the strategically important Erne Site. I congratulate all who have assisted SWC to date and I specifically include Fermanagh and Omagh Council who facilitated the purchase of the site.”
Mark Haslett, Partner with Hamilton Architects and leading designer for this new facility stated:
“Hamilton Architects are delighted to have been awarded this prestigious new project. This is an exciting opportunity for South West College, For Enniskillen and Fermanagh. We aim to provide world class facilities in a landmark building setting a new benchmark for educational buildings in Northern Ireland. This will be the largest and most environmentally friendly building of its type.”
Proposed images are currently on display in the Enniskillen Campus and public consultations regarding the project will be held in forthcoming months.
For further details on the full range of courses offered by South West College log on to www.swc.ac.uk.