THIS is the first look at a Hampshire college’s latest redevelopment plans as it embarks on a multi-million pound overhaul.

Eastleigh College has launched a bid to build a new technology block which will be funded by selling off part of its satellite site.

The new two-storey advanced technology building would be on its main Chestnut Avenue campus in the town.

It is one of a string of developments the college has planned or got underway in recent months as part of a £12.5m investment designed to update its facilities and reduce costs.

But in order to help pay for this, it wants planning permission to demolish current buildings on its Desborough Road satellite site to make way for homes.

The new building, which will replace the sports hall which the college says is no longer fit for purpose, would also have a single storey extension to a gym, as well as additional parking spaces, a cycle store and a multi use games area.

Subjects that will use the new buildings include computer science, construction, electrical and electronic engineering and higher level engineering.

If approved it would be complete by March 2017.

The sports hall, which is used by groups outside the college, would be replaced by facilities on and off site.

Eastleigh College withdrew its plans for similar facilities at its Desborough Road site in March after objections from residents and Cherbourg Primary School.

The latest plans are the last of three major projects for the college costing £12.5m part funded by a £9m grant from the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership.

Daily Echo:

Dr Jan Edrich, Eastleigh College Chief Executive and Principal,

Its plans for a new block were given the go ahead by councillors back in March.

This three storey building, which is already under construction, will provide teaching space for its hair and beauty training, art and design, financial services and general teaching.

The first stage – a refurbishment of C Block with a new training restaurant – is now complete.

College bosses hope to raise funds for these projects through selling off the college’s Cranbury Road and part of the Desborough Road satellite sites for development.

College bosses have applied to Eastleigh Borough Council to demolish the existing building at Desborough Road to build nine three bedroom homes alongside additional parking for the college.

The college was given planning approval to build 10 homes at Cranbury Road, much to the dismay of those who wanted to protect the historic school building there. and the Southampton and District Motorcycle Club who use the car park.

Dr Jan Edrich, Eastleigh College Chief Executive and Principal, said: “As a college we pride ourselves on offering our learners real careers through work-ready skills, and the funding that we have received will ensure that we can continue this work with both employers and individuals.”

Residents can comment on the new plans until November 13.