PLANS to build on the former site of Dunstable Fire Station have been revealed by Central Beds College – the first proposal for the Brewers Hill regeneration scheme.
The £3.2million project will provide “incubation” opportunities for small or start-up businesses that focus on the wider development of renewable energy.
Businesses can rent office space to develop and expand and the building on the 5,764 square metres brownfield site will feature a mixture of classrooms, conference rooms and education support spaces.
The proposals have been submitted to Central Beds Council, which last year revealed plans to attract investors and 27,000 new jobs by 2026 as part of the regeneration of Dunstable.
It is estimated that the project will initially create about 60 jobs, but the nature of the business “incubation” facilities will mean an indefinite number of new jobs will be created over time.
The building itself will be partly powered by renewable energy, including the use of solar panels and grey water recycling systems.
Ali Hadawi, principal of the college, said: “The new centre will offer business development opportunities and office accommodation for those working on developing ideas in the renewable energies field.
“It will provide a collaborative approach to how education and business are working together and will provide students with cutting edge examples of modern practices and ideas.”
The project is part-funded by the East of England Development Agency through a grant, and part-funded by the college itself.
Construction is due to begin this summer pending planning permission being granted by Central Beds Council, with occupancy of the building due to start in September 2013.