John Turner Construction had the privilege of delivering the new Motor Vehicle Centre for Tameside College, a landmark project that supports the College’s ambition to offer high-quality technical education in a setting that reflects the needs of today’s automotive industry.

Situated at the Beaufort Road campus in Ashton-under-Lyne, the new facility is part of a wider transformation aimed at improving the student experience and creating modern, purpose-built spaces that reflect real working environments.

Appointed through the Rise Construction Framework and working under a JCT Design and Build contract, we managed the full design and construction process. Funded in part by the Department for Education through the Further Education Capital Transformation Fund, the centre plays a key role in the College’s masterplan, providing a specialist space that supports electric and hybrid vehicle training and ensures that students are equipped with the skills required by today’s employers.

The single-storey steel frame building covers 1,130 square metres and includes fully equipped workshops, dedicated teaching areas and mezzanine spaces for plant and services. Specialist facilities include a professional paint spraying booth, MOT testing area, wheel alignment equipment and an electric vehicle training suite. The interior layout is designed to replicate commercial environments, giving learners hands-on experience that closely matches what they will encounter in the workplace.

The works were delivered in three main phases. The first phase involved service diversions and the partial demolition of the existing Newton Building. This was followed by the construction of the new facility and the installation of all mechanical and electrical systems. The final phase included the complete removal of the remaining Newton structure and the completion of surrounding external works, such as landscaping, access routes and a new canopy. The building features modern cladding, glazed sections and a Kalzip roof, all of which contribute to improved energy performance and a more efficient, sustainable operation.

Working on a live campus required careful co-ordination and collaboration with the College and design team throughout the project. The finished building now serves over 350 learners each week and has already contributed to enhanced teaching delivery and stronger employer engagement. Feedback from staff and students has been extremely positive, and the centre stands as a valuable addition to the College’s technical education offer.

John Turner Construction is pleased to have contributed to the creation of a high-quality facility that supports the future of automotive training and reflects Tameside College’s commitment to excellence in education.

Client: Tameside College