A MULTI-MILLION pound project that will secure the future of one of the country’s leading agricultural colleges is on track for opening ahead of the new academic year.

The development at East Durham College’s Houghall campus, on the outskirts of Durham, is the first major work to the site on this scale since its opening in 1938.

The £12million project sees the redevelopment of the front building, along with the construction of a number of new buildings to move facilities from the farm closer to the front of the site.

In the main building, an internal social space has been created with walls removed and new stairs and lift installed.

The building will also feature two new labs and two new classrooms along with an IT suite.

Progress is going well on a new animal care building and kennels, with the building and roof now constructed, along with internal walls. Work on the new agricultural buildings is almost complete, with the main structures up and covered.

Building work on the new equine centre is also gathering pace, with the framework for the new indoor arena and stables built.

Surrounding groundworks are nearing completion and all water, electric and data connections have been installed.

The college’s director of estates and resources, Jim Blower, said: “All the months of hard work and planning are starting to really bear fruit and the handover date is rapidly approaching.

“On current programme, the buildings will be handed back to the college in late August, ready for the new academic year. The staff, students and I are really looking forward to seeing the finished work in September.”

For more information on land-based courses at the Houghall campus visit www.eastdurham.ac.uk or contact 0191-375-4710.