Secure College development drives local jobs and growth in Leicestershire

Local businesses given the chance to win valuable contracts in the development of the first Secure College, Justice Minister Andrew Selous announced.

Plans for the Secure College in Leicestershire

Companies have been able to showcase their products and services to preferred bidder Wates Construction, which has committed to 70% of construction appointments going to local businesses. There is also a commitment to create 32 apprenticeships, 30 new jobs and 24 work placements for local schoolchildren, giving a great financial boost to the region.

Attending the showcase event in Leicester, Justice Minister Andrew Selous said:

"The development of the Secure College will give a massive boost to the local economy in Leicestershire.

"Thousands of pounds will be spent with small businesses ranging from carpentry to brick-work to landscaping, providing valuable jobs and training for apprentices.

"This innovative approach will not only transform the landscape of youth custody, but will also give local businesses the opportunity to expand and be part of an important and exciting new project."

The event will allow local SMEs to demonstrate what they can offer in a variety of trades including lift installation, painting and decorating, signage and steelwork.

Secure Colleges will be a new generation of secure educational establishments which will put education at the heart of youth custody. If the pathfinder Secure College proves successful it will inform our vision for the future of the youth custodial estate.

Planning permission for the Secure College has been submitted to Blaby Council for a 320 place establishment, with new sports facilities, and learning skills blocks to provide education and training for young offenders.

Throughout construction Wates has also pledged to offer a range of employment and training opportunities, including its national Changing Paths programme, designed to help secure jobs for ex offenders and those that are long term unemployed.

Phil Harrison, Managing Director, Wates Construction Midlands and North, commented:

"Procuring a local supply chain has a deep-seated effect on boosting and sustaining local employment and it is for this reason that all of our projects are delivered in collaboration with nearby suppliers and sub-contractors.

"We have an established supply chain in the East Midlands that we are now looking to expand upon and we welcome those interested to attend our Meet the Buyer event in Blaby."

Legislation on Secure Colleges is included in the Criminal Justice and Courts Bill which is currently progressing through Parliament.