Issue - meetings

The Board received an update on the completion of the new North Hertfordshire College campus in the town centre. It was noted that the former indoor market site had been successfully transformed and provided capacity for over 400 students, which was expected to generate significant footfall within the town centre. The College expressed its support for the project and highlighted its growing provision, including 80 apprenticeships and evening courses.

An update was also provided on the proposed SITEC Phase 2B project, which would focus on advanced manufacturing and engineering skills and explore the development of a new town centre facility. Work was underway with North Hertfordshire College and partners to develop the proposal and funding strategy, with a report expected to be considered by Cabinet in November 2026.

The College advised that engineering and advanced manufacturing were key areas for future growth, with plans to expand apprenticeship, full-time and adult courses. The College had also been invited to join the national Advanced Manufacturing Technical Excellence College network, which could provide additional expertise and potential capital funding to support the proposed facility.

Board Members welcomed the developments and highlighted the opportunities to expand skills provision for residents of all ages, including potential future provision for learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The importance of the new campus contributing to town centre footfall and ensuring that the facility was accessible and clearly signposted for students travelling from outside Stevenage was also noted.

It was RESOLVED that the updates be noted.

A presentation was given from representatives of Reef Origin regarding the development at the former GSK campus in Stevenage.

The Board noted the scheme was comprised of significant mixed-use life sciences and data centre development, supported by large scale infrastructure works which are already underway. The presentation spoke through the recently secured revised planning consent which incorporates two data centres within the site. The Board were informed to how this supports the growing demand and how it enhances the wider masterplan which transforms the site into an open environment with extensive landscaping, community spaces and facilities designed to encourage wider use by businesses, residents and visitors.

The Board further noted that the development was expected to deliver significant economic benefits for Stevenage and the wider Hertfordshire area. These benefits included thousands of construction and operational jobs, apprenticeships and support for the local life sciences, defence and technology sectors.

The Board discussed the sustainability credentials of the proposed data centres, and welcomed the emphasis on skills development, social value and partnership working with local colleges and training providers. The Chair welcomed the progress made on the scheme and thanked the presenters for an informative update.

It was RESOLVED that the updates be noted.