Gloucestershire College buys house for student building project

BBC Press Coverage - Gloucestershire College buys house for student building project

A college has bought a run-down house for students to practise their building skills.

The two-bedroom terraced house in Tredworth was snapped up for £71,500 by Gloucestershire College.

The aim is to renovate the property over the next three months and sell it on, using the money for another house.

Principal Matthew Burgess said: "We believe we're the first college in the country to buy a property as a student renovation project."

More than 400 students are expected to take part in the project, which will involve gutting the house and renovating it to a professional standard.

'Create a great home'

Course leader Mike Lawson said the college had had been looking for something that was within budget but needed the "maximum amount of work done."

"I think there's a lot we can restore but there's also a lot we need to rip out and start again," he said.

"There's nothing when it comes to electrics and plumbing which is up to standard."

Mr Burgess, said it was a "really great project to do in the community".

"We've got a house that needs a bit of work and hopefully we can create a great home for someone," he said.

"I can't wait to see what the student led teams achieve on site."