Technical & Higher Education Hub, New College Durham

The Technical and Higher Education Hub, formally named ‘T.H.E Hub’, is a two-storey collaborative and integrated learning space at New College Durham’s busy Framwellgate Moor Campus. 

The £8.9 million building extension provides a state-of-the-art environment for the delivery of higher and technical level skills qualifications.

With high-spec interiors and adaptable design, T.H.E Hub is more than a building - it’s a hub for innovation, social connection, and future success.

From the outset, careful phasing and logistical planning ensured that the challenges of a compact site environment were overcome and the college’s day-to-day access and operations continued seamlessly.

The structure is built with a steel frame supported by piled foundations and concrete ground beams. Its striking façade combines curtain walling, Sto render, and a rainscreen cladding system, delivering a visually impactful finish. Inside, the design prioritises an abundance of natural light, thanks to north lights and internal glazed screens that create bright, inspiring spaces for learning.

The dynamic, future-ready facility features 23 teaching spaces including an immersive suite, an early years foundation stage nursery, a sensory room, a hospital ward, a dental suite, an E-Sports arena, cyber security facilities, specialist I.T. classrooms and science laboratories.

Beyond specialist spaces, the building champions collaboration and wellbeing with modern breakout zones and social areas, creating an inspiring environment where students can learn, connect, and thrive.

The scheme was procured via the Procure Partnerships Framework and social value for the local area was a top priority throughout. Our commitment to local employment saw 91% of operatives on site come from North East communities, ensuring the project generated real economic benefit for the region.

We championed opportunities for the next generation, creating 11 new apprenticeships, all studying at New College Durham. Beyond apprenticeships, we maximised the unique advantage of a live site on campus by providing 90 days of T Level student placements and two five-day work placements for Level 3 Advanced Plumbing students.

We worked closely with the college to prepare students for the world of work, delivering site visits, employability and money management sessions, as well as tailored workshops led by industry professionals. These initiatives ensured learners gained practical insight and confidence to succeed in their careers.