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  • "Cut backs, loss of jobs etc. until in comes to education then it is spend, spend, spend. Where do they get the money from, I take it this project has been funded by public money?"
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Kidderminster's Piano Building to hit new notes

7:50am Friday 13th April 2012 in School Scene Photograph of the Author By William Tomaney

New note: From left, John Starmer of Birmingham Metropolitan College, Thomas Vale contracts manager Kevin Zamur, Jack Ashford, Birmingham Metropolitan College estates co-ordinator, and Thomas Vale’s Bill Munn outside the Piano Building. New note: From left, John Starmer of Birmingham Metropolitan College, Thomas Vale contracts manager Kevin Zamur, Jack Ashford, Birmingham Metropolitan College estates co-ordinator, and Thomas Vale’s Bill Munn outside the Piano Building.

REDEVELOPMENT of a landmark Kidderminster building is under way to provide a new education experience for the town.

The Piano Building in Weavers Wharf is being transformed into the home of the Academy at Kidderminster by Stourport-based Thomas Vale Construction.

Work on the five-storey building, part of the town’s skyline for 145 years, began on Monday last week and is due to finish in September when the academy, a joint project by Birmingham Metropolitan College and Kidderminster College, will open.

Thomas Vale group managing director Tony Hyde said: “As a local contractor, we are extremely excited to be part of such an amazing project for future generations of the region.

“We are looking forward to a long and continuing relationship with the two colleges, ensuring localised procurement targets, economic and social sustainability.”

The academy aims to provide education and training for up to 1,000 learners. The proposed curriculum includes computer games development, fashion design and retail, a Samsung experience academy, 3D animation and electronics.

Food preparation and hospitality courses will also be supported by on-site amenities, including a cafeteria.

Kidderminster College principal Andy Dobson said: “The facilities will be truly outstanding and will provide a huge creative and cultural boost to the area, which will benefit students, the community, new media entrepreneurs and businesses.”

Christine Braddock, Birmingham Metropolitan College principal, said the academy would provide relevant skills training for young people in a “vibrant learning space”.

The Piano Building was originally built in 1867 as a warehousing unit for Brintons Carpets. When viewed from above the curved north side makes the building look like a grand piano.

Its redevelopment was announced during a Re-Wyre conference last November.

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