Plans for a new institute of technology at Exeter College have been revealed as part of a wider £170m Department for Education project.
If approved, the site on Hele Road in Exeter will be expanded with an additional 26,909 sq ft of teaching space which could cater for over 1,500 student.
The Department for Education (DfE) has awarded the money to establish a network of Institutes of Technology across the country, with the Exeter College project rated at £70m.
The application was submitted by Avison Young on behalf of Exeter College.
The application’s planning statement reads: “The first phase of the wider masterplan has been identified as the delivery of a new Digital and Data Centre.
“Exeter has a strong and growing reputation as a leading centre for technical and digital innovation and growth.
“Working within the Universities of Exeter and Plymouth, other colleges from across the South West, and leading organisations such as the Met Office and Oxygen House, Exeter College is driving forward the delivery of a new South West Institute of Technology.
“The Institute of Technology (Digital and Data Centre) is proposed as an extension to the existing Hele Building at the main entrance to the south east of the Hele Road campus (an area identified as an early development opportunity within the College’s Property Strategy and Masterplan).
“The proposed extension will comprise approximately 26,909 sq ft (GIA) of additional floorspace, providing a dedicated space for teaching and learning in digital and data driven courses.
“In addition, it will provide unique collaborative spaces to support cross institutional initiatives and engagement with local major employers and stakeholders.
“Catering for up to 1,549 students, ranging from post A-level to degree apprenticeship level, the Institute of Technology would help to place the region at the forefront of digital technology learning across the UK and underwrite Exeter’s leading role in the nation’s digital future.
“The application seeks planning permission for the erection of a three storey extension to the existing Hele Building at the main entrance to the south east of the Hele Road campus to accommodate the Institute of Technology (Digital and Data Centre).
“There is a capital fund of £170m available for the whole IoT programme, which bidders can apply for, to refurbish or upgrade existing facilities, purchase equipment or invest in a new build if that is required.”
Exeter City Council will decide on the project in due course.