A HAMPSHIRE college has been thrust into the spotlight as a leading performing arts centre thanks to the completion of a multi-million pound theatre complex.
Bosses at Totton College have formally received the keys to the new building at Hanger Farm from Totton and Eling Town Council.
The ceremony was particularly significant after the building schedule was thrown into doubt when the hired contractors went into voluntary administration half way through the project.
Crisis talks quickly led to a new firm being drafted in to finish the scheme, pushing the opening date back later than civic chiefs had initially intended.
Now teaching is set to start immediately in the £1.5m facility which features a jazz caf, practise rooms, a reception and box office, an exhibition room and a theatre with moveable seating.
College staff are hoping the new building will act as a powerful draw to budding performers in the county.
Principal Mark Bramwell said: "We are delighted and thrilled by this exciting opportunity."
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