Taunton at the Centre of Sustainable Development
Somerset College of Arts and Technology

21-11-04
 

Somerset College of Arts and Technology, Taunton, welcomed the first stage of the Genesis project, a pioneering regional sustainable construction centre for education and learning. Kevin McCloud, project patron and TVs Grand Designs presenter cut the first turf and gave a short address at the launch held yesterday (22nd November).    The centre will be based in Taunton at Somerset College of Arts and Technology, which as the Somerset Centre for the University of Plymouth, provides leading edge skills, information and communications resources. The new resource centre will deliver training in both a formal and informal way, acting as a one stop shop on sustainable construction techniques and will provide education at all levels from primary school to university degree.    The single storey centre will comprise several 'pavilions' built from environmentally friendly materials such as straw, timber, earth and clay along with a water pavilion made out of perspex which will allow visitors to see how rainwater can be recycled.     The pavilions will contain seminar rooms and lecture theatres with exhibition space promoting the very latest in sustainable technology, along with a construction area where visitors can see practical demonstrations of sustainable construction techniques.    Commenting on the launch Jo Matthews, Deputy Principal of Somerset College and Genesis Project Director said, "At the centre we will be able to promote sustainable construction techniques and materials as well as increase the skills base of the construction industry. It is a great opportunity for Taunton, the college and for the region as a whole.    Gordon Woodend, South West RDA head of operations for Somerset, said, "The Genesis project will play an important role in improving the understanding and skills of sustainable development in Somerset and South West England".     Gordon added, "The centre will help the construction industry and wider public to manage more effectively the use of scarce materials and energy and will be a leader in its field. The RDA, as one of the key funders, is pleased to be actively involved in this exciting and innovative initiative".    The College also has an extensive network of partners and organizations supporting sustainable development. The Somerset Trust for Sustainable Development is a key partner and will relocate its information and advice service to Genesis. The SWRDA is the primary funder of the project; in addition their involvement will provide a co-ordination role to ensure best practice across the entire South West. Other key funding agencies include the Learning and Skills Council and the Higher Education a Funding Council for England.    -Ends-    About Genesis    1. Somerset College of Arts and Technology is a general Further Education College based in Taunton. Over 14,500 students study at the College with over 1,000 at University level. By 2005, we will have completed our four-year £15 million major redevelopment programme, providing the most up-to-date facilities for students and teachers. Our mission is to contribute to the development of our community by recognising valuing and maximising the learning potential of every student.    2. The South West of England Regional Development Agency was created in April 1999 to further the economic development and regeneration of the area; to promote business efficiency, investment and competitiveness; to promote employment; to develop the skills relevant to employment; and to contribute to sustainable development.    The RDA has invested £1,060,000 in the Genesis project.     For further information please contact Lyndsay Geddes at Clear Communications Ltd,   Telephone: 01666 503012 Fax: 01666 505511  lgeddes@clearcommunications.co.uk   Contact: Lyndsay Geddes Tel: 01666 503012 Email: lgeddes@clearcommunications.co.uk