THE first stage of the new 'Future Farm' at Duchy College has been handed over to staff and students following the completion of the Agricultural and Land-based Skills and Technology Centre.

The £2.1-million scheme is part of a bigger project at the site in Stoke Climsland, which will also see the creation of a unique £3.2-million dairy unit providing applied research and teaching and incorporating new technologies from around the world.

Dr Phil Le Grice, director of rural economy at Duchy College, said: 'I am delighted that stage one of our Future Farm project has been completed and students are already using the new facilities. 

'This is a significant step for Duchy College and in the coming months we will see students from our further and higher education programmes, Rural Business School and our apprentices using the centre to learn modern farming and countryside management skills, which are essential for the modern agricultural industry.'

The project involves the renovation of a historic Grade II Listed two-storey barn and the creation of a brand-new building, built from steel and timber. Both will form the base for the college's partnerships with major machinery manufacturers and local, national and international land-based students. 

Dr Le Grice added: 'There is evidence that shows of an impending skills gap in the agriculture, food and horticulture industries; knowledge and learning are fundamental to improving the economic performance of these key sectors as well as tackling issues over food security.'

Level 2 Agriculture student Ryan James said: 'It's great for us to be able to learn in such a modern environment with the latest technology.'

Agricultural apprentice Rhys Gillbard added: 'The facilities we had before were very good, but having all of this on one site is a real bonus.'

Mike O'Neill, divisional director for construction firm Midas, said: 'The team are delighted to complete the work on this world class teaching and training facility.

'Having worked with Duchy College on more than ten projects over recent years it is fantastic to be working with them again to develop a skills centre which will provide a modern working farm site for the next generation of professionals preparing to enter the workplace.

The second and third phase of the Future Farm development will see the creation of a state of the art dairy unit and a new university hub, housing staff, students and visiting industrialists and academics from around the world. 

Dr Le Grice said: 'This development is world class and will cement Duchy College and the South West at the heart of the UK's agricultural technology and food security strategies.'