Consortium backs centre of excellence

Filton College learns if it has won outline planning permission for a multi-million pound vocational centre for this month.

The scheme, to be located on Filton High School, is part of plans to establish a centre of excellence in sport and dramatic arts for 14 to 19-year-olds in South Gloucestershire.

Costing more than £14m, the project is being developed and funded by Filton High School, Bristol Rovers Football Club and Pro 5, an operator of five-a-side football centres. Filton High School and Filton College will jointly deliver vocational qualifications, while Bristol Rovers will be behind the sporting programme which will include football, rugby, hockey, netball, basketball and golf. Future plans include the provision of gymnastics, swimming and athletics.

Facilities will include indoor and outdoor football pitches and 12 five-a-side pitches. Work starts in January if planning is granted. Details: +44 (0)117 9092 312