In a unanimous vote, the planning committee agreed that the project will be the start of an exciting new chapter for both the College and the community.
The new state of the art campus in Plumstead will provide flexible, inspiring teaching and learning spaces, enabling the college to diversify the curriculum and generate new skills and employment opportunities for local people.
Half of the new homes will be affordable, with a mix of shared ownership and affordable rent. Importantly, the scheme will provide 63 three-bed homes for families.
Speaking at the planning committee last night, Group Principal and CEO of London South East Colleges, Dr Sam Parrett CBE set out the value of the project and importance it will have for the local community for generations to come. She said:“The Future Greenwich project is the culmination of a 5-year journey. We have worked extremely hard to get this development right, ensuring it meets the needs of everyone including students, staff, employers and the local community.
“We passionately believe that young people and adults living and working in Greenwich deserve access to outstanding education and training pathways to unlock their potential.
“I am extremely grateful for all the support given by our many stakeholders and supporters – including the GLA and our partners L&Q who have worked tirelessly with us. I am hugely excited about the future of skills and further education in Greenwich, at a time when such skills are so desperately needed.
“We know the project will make a powerful contribution to job creation within the borough and have a significant impact on employment and progression outcomes – so are absolutely delighted that the planning committee has agreed to let us proceed with this very exciting and important development.”
Angie Hooper, Director of Business Development at L&Q adds: “We’re delighted that the Royal Borough of Greenwich has backed our plans for this important development. This marks the beginning of a new phase in our partnership with London South East Colleges, as we gear up to start works next year.
“Our plans will result in a vibrant new place at the heart of Plumstead, combining educational facilities which will do so much to improve people’s life chances, with an attractive development bringing new and affordable homes to the area.”
Construction works are expected to start in early 2022 with the new campus opening in 2025 at the same time as the first homes completing.