Ashington Campus at Northumberland College

The redevelopment of Northumberland College’s Ashington Campus is poised to unlock immense value for students, staff, and the wider community. The proposed design consolidates the campus into three distinct buildings, a three-storey teaching block, a two-storey commons block, and an engineering and technology centre. This streamlined layout maximises functionality while providing quality spaces for learning, collaboration, and recreation. The design integrates innovative public facing facilities, such as a catering hub, a hair and beauty centre, and a hospitality curriculum area.

These not only provide real world training opportunities for students but also serve as resources for the local community. Strategic site selection and planning ensure minimal disruption to existing operations, with the new campus offering seamless transitions for 1,873 full time equivalent students and 174 staff. Outdoor spaces, including a forest school area and biodiverse landscaping, further enhance the campus’s appeal, fostering well-being and creativity.

The proposed redevelopment will have significant social, economic, and environmental impacts. Socially, it will provide a safe, inclusive, and modern environment where students and staff can thrive. The project prioritises accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that all learners, including those with special educational needs, have access to high quality education. Economically, the new campus is set to boost local employment during construction and establish the college as a leader in higher education and vocational training. The innovative facilities are expected to attract partnerships, increasing regional opportunities for apprenticeships and skill development.

Environmentally, the project represents a milestone in sustainable development. By adopting GenZero principles, the campus will significantly reduce operational carbon emissions and prioritise renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaic panels and air-source heat pumps. The enhanced landscaping and green spaces will also contribute to local biodiversity and create a healthier, more engaging environment.

This trailblazing building is setting the standard for net-zero carbon educational projects, showing how we can rethink construction for a greener future. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered. Its orientation harnesses natural light, while the materials and mechanical systems have been chosen with precision to maximise energy efficiency and cut down on waste. Passive ventilation flows naturally through the spaces, keeping the air fresh without energy hungry systems.

High performance insulation and timber cladding, not only durable but beautiful, showcase a commitment to low carbon principles. And behind the scenes, a cleverly designed spatial grid brings it all together. This structural innovation enables off-site manufacturing, speeding up construction while significantly reducing emissions and waste on-site.