Planning application has been applied for to build a training centre in Newcastle specifically for construction workers, by the National House Building Council (NHBC).
The NHBC Training Hub will be built in partnership with Keepmoat Homes, New Tyne West Development Company, Newcastle City Council, North of Tyne Combined Authority and Homes England, dependant of course on planning permission being granted.
This will be within The Rise housing development which is under construction in Scotswood. Being delivered by NTWDC , a joint venture between Newcastle City Council and Keepmoat Homes, the site is an 1,800 home estate.
The training centre would assist approximately 100 apprentices per year with the initial focus being bricklaying. This would be the second such dedicated specialised facility by NHBC, the first opening in Tamworth in 2021.
Daryl Stewart, NHBC head of commercial services said: “The hub will provide a precise practical work environment where an accelerated, front loaded block release, homebuilding focused bricklaying apprenticeship can be provided. This will be open to all housebuilders and supply chains within the area and will help towards tackling the skills shortage”.
NHBC became a registered apprenticeship provider in 2020.
Michelle Percy, Newcastle City Council director of place said: “To create employment and learning opportunities is an important part of regeneration, this therefore has the potential to be an exciting initiative, it will of course be subject to the normal planning process”.