UHI Argyll Helensburgh centre undergoes £285,000 transformation
The UHI Argyll Helensburgh centre, located on Buchanan Road, has recently undergone a £285,000 transformation, including extensive building works and renovations, significantly improving the facility for students and staff alike.
Since opening in 2017, the college has played a pivotal role in the lives of 2000 students, providing Further and Higher Education courses plus a programme of activities for senior phase pupils at Hermitage Academy. The college also offers commercial courses to meet the needs of Argyll and Bute’s key industries.
The building was officially reopened by Elaine Munro, Acting Principal of UHI Argyll on Monday 18th March 2024. Representatives from Argyll & Bute Council, Jobcentre Plus, Skills Development Scotland, Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), the Royal Navy Learning and Development Hub and local businesses were in attendance to tour the new facilities.
“The breadth of organisations and individuals represented here today, gives some insight into the partnership working which we undertake, and to how many people are invested in the success of our students.” Said Theresa Bain, UHI Argyll Centre Manager for Helensburgh. “The reaction of students and staff to the upgraded facilities has been overwhelmingly positive. We hope to welcome many local people through our doors to see these improvements during Big College Open Week at the end of the month.”
The works, which were undertaken by Bridgewater Building Solutions began back in August 2023 and have led to the creation of an accessible reception area, a student recreation space, and additional classrooms to accommodate the 93 students currently enrolled. Careful reconfiguration of internal spaces has also created an area for work pods and private study space.
The exterior the building has been given a face-lift with a fresh paint job, and gardens have been created at the front and back of the building by our Horticulture students with the generous support of Dobbies in Milngavie and Homegrown Garden Centre in Gartcosh. Argyll and Bute Council have supported with landscaping and repairing and painting the boundary fence.
If you’d like to see the new centre for yourself, visit us during our upcoming Open Week, taking place from Thursday 21st to Thursday 28th March. Our doors will be open all week as we showcase everything UHI Argyll has to offer. You can find out more about studying with us, get advice on funding and student support, or book on to one of our fun, interactive taster events to get a feel if a subject is for you.