New jobs created as Community Skills Centre opens at Blackpool's £350m 'mini-Canary Wharf' development

A new Community Skills Centre has opened in Blackpool as VINCI Building launches its 6th training hub at the Government Hub on Talbot Road in the town’s £350m ‘mini-Canary Wharf’.

VINCI Building said it is ‘proud’ to open the new Community Skills Centre in partnership with Muse, Blackpool Council, The Platform, Blackpool & The Fylde College and Impact Den.

The centre marks another important step in supporting local people into education, employment and long-term careers in construction.

‘Seeing students learning brings the project to life’

Councillor Jo Farrell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing, said: “It was fantastic to visit the Community Skills Centre and see the incredible progress being made as part of the Ministry of Defence build.

“We aren’t just regenerating Blackpool town centre, but we’re making sure that we create opportunities and jobs for our young people. This partnership between Blackpool Council, Blackpool and The Fylde College, VINCI and Muse is a brilliant example of how we can invest in both regeneration and local people at the same time.

“Seeing students learning on site as part of their course really brings the project to life. They’re gaining valuable experience that will support them into future careers. It’s great to see something so positive making a real difference in our community as we make Blackpool better for the people who live here.”

Hands-on training

Based on site at the Government Hub development, the Community Skills Centre will provide hands-on training for 13 local learners who are currently not in education, employment or training (NEET). Delivered in partnership with Blackpool & The Fylde College, the 12-week programme combines practical experience with essential industry knowledge.

As part of the course, learners will work towards a Level 1 Award in Introduction to the Construction Environment, gain their CSCS Green Labourer Card and develop practical skills in trades including plastering, wall tiling and floor tiling. Training will be delivered on site by experienced tutors.

‘I’m extremely proud’

John Roberts, Managing Director at VINCI Building, said: “I’m extremely proud to see our Community Skills Centre initiative continuing to expand - this is our second centre for the people of Blackpool.

“These centres play a vital role in creating genuine opportunities and supporting local people to develop valuable skills and progress into meaningful careers within the construction industry.”

Confidence, wellbeing, and employment

The programme is designed to do more than develop technical abilities. It aims to build confidence, improve wellbeing and prepare learners for employment opportunities.

Throughout the course, learners will engage with VINCI Building’s supply chain through industry talks covering workplace expectations, CV support and modern methods of construction.

Work experience placements with subcontractors will also be offered, with the aim of supporting learners into employment after completing the programme.

Recognising the importance of mental health, VINCI Building is also working with local charity Empowerment to deliver dedicated wellbeing sessions, helping learners build confidence and track their progress throughout the programme.

‘We look forward to seeing them progress’

Alan McBride, Director of Project Management, North West at Muse, added: “Holistic placemaking is all about ensuring people from all walks of life benefit throughout the journey to create new spaces and places.

“This second skills centre in Talbot Gateway will provide people from the local area looking to kickstart a career in the construction industry with vital experience and knowledge alongside great sector contacts. We look forward to seeing them progress on site while making a vital contribution to Blackpool’s continued regeneration.”