East Sussex College breaks ground on Green Automotive Centre of Excellence in Hastings

East Sussex College has broken ground on a new Green Automotive Centre of Excellence at its Ore Valley campus in Hastings.

The purpose-built facility will become the new home of the college’s motor vehicle training provision, creating modern workshops designed to support learning in electric vehicles (EVs), low-emission technologies and the next generation of automotive systems.

Funded through Hastings’ Town Deal programme, the development will relocate the college’s Automotive Training Centre (ATC) from its current off-site location at Ivy House Lane to the Ore Valley campus, bringing students together within a modern main campus environment.

Sunninghill Construction has been appointed as the contractor for the project and will deliver the build of the new facility which will equip learners with the skills needed for a rapidly changing automotive industry.

"Breaking ground on this new Green Automotive Centre of Excellence represents far more than the start of a construction project, it signals our commitment to shaping the future of green automotive skills in our region,” said Rebecca Conroy, CEO & Principal of East Sussex College. “This centre will give students an environment that inspires ambition, nurtures innovation and equips them for careers in an industry undergoing profound transformation.

“With electrification and sustainable technologies redefining how vehicles are designed, built and maintained, this facility will ensure our learners are not just keeping pace with change, they’re leading it. It’s an investment in their future, in our community, and in the green economy we are determined to help build.”

By bringing automotive provision onto the Ore Valley campus, students will benefit from purpose-built facilities alongside access to wider college services, support and enrichment opportunities, strengthening both the student experience and campus community.

“Sunninghill is delighted to have been awarded the opportunity to be part of this valuable project,” said James Ridger, Construction Manager at Sunninghill Construction Company. “Alongside the construction work, and part of our Social Value commitments, we are arranging site visits for students. These are designed to give those undertaking courses such as plumbing and electrical a real insight into what a live construction site looks like, including the opportunity to meet specialist subcontractors and see their trades in action.

“These visits will help students understand how the project is delivered, including the order of works and the range of different trades involved, while providing a practical link between their studies and real-world application. We look forward to delivering the completed project in the autumn.”

The new development supports Hastings Borough Councils’ ambition to invest in skills, education and opportunities for local people while supporting the growth of future-focused industries.

Cllr Julia Hilton, Deputy Leader of Hastings Borough Council and lead councillor for shaping places and local government reorganisation, said: “The Green Automotive Centre of Excellence is critical to addressing the skills gap in our town and supporting the regional transition to sustainable transport. It’s fantastic to see green skills courses already being delivered, helping people develop the expertise needed for the jobs of the future. The centre also makes great use of a previously under-utilised space, bringing educational, social and economic benefits to our town.”

Graham Peters, Chair of the Town Deal Board, added: “It’s really exciting to see work begin on this project, which shows the real impact of the Hastings Town Deal Fund. The new Green Automotive Centre of Excellence will help local people gain the skills needed for the transition to electric and low-emission vehicles while supporting future jobs and opportunities in Hastings.”