Northern Regional College (NRC) Estates Projects
A rationalisation programme to improve estates operational efficiencies
| Current Status | Active |
|---|---|
| Key Contact |
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| Category | Physical Infrastructure |
Project Description
In 2016 Northern Regional College received approval from the Department for the Economy (DfE) to embark on an ambitious estates rationalisation programme aimed at reducing the number of campuses and to improve estates operational efficiencies.
The project includes the following:
- a consolidated new building on the existing expanded site in Coleraine, replacing existing campuses at Coleraine and Ballymoney;
- a consolidated new campus building for Ballymena on the Existing Farm lodge site;
- identification and necessary alterations to a suitable decant premises in Coleraine for College operations during new build period;
- the eventual transfer of services of existing campuses from Ballymoney and Ballymena (Trostan Avenue) following establishment of new build campuses.
The key objectives of the project include:
- improving the condition and quality of the NRC estate by providing fit for purpose modern and attractive teaching and learning environments through flexible and adaptable accommodation, the delivery of training provision for further and higher education;
- providing facilities that will improve the location and visibility of the campuses and promote accessibility for all students, staff and members of the community;
- enhancing the image and reputation of the College at a local, regional and national level, by providing accommodation that enhances the student and teaching experience and supports the efficient operation of the college whilst minimising disruption for students and staff.
Drone footage of NRC Ballymena Campus
Drone footage of NRC Coleraine Campus
Project Status
Coleraine: Planning approval was obtained in June 2019. The project was successfully tendered in early 2020 prior to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic and following detailed contractual discussions, the contract was awarded in November 2020
The new £46 million campus project involved the complete demolition of the existing campus buildings and decant of services to a refurbished decant premised for a period of 3 academic years. Construction works were completed in July 2024 and successfully opened for the start of the academic year in September 2024.
Ballymena: Planning approval was obtained in August 2019 and the project following successful procurement process the construction contract was awarded in November 2021.
The new £52 million campus is being new built on a live operational site, involving complex phased construction and sectional completion. Construction works are progressing to schedule with the building fully weathertight in June 2024. The project is a multi phased contract, with Phase 2 (new campus accommodation), on schedule to be complete in May 2025. Overall project is scheduled to be completed in January 2026.
The new campus will be open for students at the start of the academic year 2025/26 in September 2025.
SIB Involvement
A SIB Project Director was appointed in late 2016. The post is being delivered through the Strategic Investment Board under an Operational Partnership Agreement (OPA) between SIB and the Department for Economy.
