ISG celebrated reaching the highest point in the construction of the new campus building at Richmond upon Thames College by hosting a topping out ceremony where Liberal Democrat Party leader and MP for Twickenham, Sir Vince Cable, tightened the final bolt on the steel frame.
More than 100 guests from the college, ISG’s supply chain and its associated partners attended the event to mark the completion of the building’s shell and core, bringing the College’s vision to create a world class post-16 centre of excellence closer to realisation.
As he addressed the attendees, Sir Vince Cable said: “This outstanding building will turn this college into place of distinction for vocational and educational training and apprenticeships in the region, and I’m really proud to be associated with the project.
“We have to make sure the further education sector in the UK is properly supported. Post-school education is not just about universities and having a successful further education sector is absolutely critical to the future of the country. I am delighted that the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames is hosting such a forward-thinking project and I would like to say well done to everybody who has been involved in bringing it to fruition.”
Steven McGee from ISG, as well as project partners, including Fusion, Atkins and Faithful+Gould also addressed the delegates on the day, alongside Gerard Toplass from procurement and management services provider, PAGABO, who revealed that the £35 million project has generated more than £53 million of social value in Richmond, including the creation of 10 apprenticeships and 41 new jobs, to date.
Steven McGee, managing director of ISG’s UK Construction South division, explained: “A great deal of hard work, creative thinking and collaboration has bought this project to this key milestone. This event marks a significant moment in the delivery of this legacy project for the region, and it’s a moment to pause and reflect on the strong partnerships and joint endeavor that is bringing this exceptional facility to life.”
“The Richmond Building will act as a beacon for the community, attracting the brightest students in the region, and the best talent in FE teaching, and ISG is already playing its part in this vision. Throughout the course of the project, we have engaged with young people in Richmond to drive employment and upskilling opportunities. Our Level 3 Diploma in Professional Construction Practice (PCP), which will be rolled out – in conjunction with the college – from this September. We welcome the engagement from our partners, the college and the local community as we continue to create a positive legacy in Richmond for generations to come.”
Robin Ghurbhurun, RuTC’s Chief Executive and Principal added: “The vision is to create a flagship college that will not only benefit Richmond borough residents but also become a major careers hub and community destination for students and employers. Colleges are vital in driving social mobility and providing the skills to boost local and regional economies by providing high quality technical and professional education and training for young people, adults and employers.”
The building is due for completion, early 2020.
