Firm plans ‘revolutionary’ careers education development

A developer said it still wants to construct a new careers centre, despite the scheme being turned down by East Riding of Yorkshire Council this week.

The Qdos Careers Hub is being planned to open in Melton, with its development being led by Manor Property Group in consultation with Humber Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and four local authorities – East Riding of Yorkshire, Hull City Council, North East Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire.

If it is approved, around 150 pupils from schools and colleges in the region will be able to access the centre each day, giving them the chance to experience inspiring days in an advanced work environment as opposed to a classroom.

Young people would benefit from cutting-edge facilities and careers advice from a range of industry experts and employers. Workshops, taster sessions and industry tours would be available to help students make the right decision about their future careers – while shining a light on the many employment opportunities available in the area.

Manor Property Group said the hub’s collaborative approach between business, educators and local government would focus on needs and long-term solutions for improved careers education in the region, supporting the Government’s own careers strategy.

The business noted that East Riding of Yorkshire Council turned down the planning application for the site at Melton Bottom Quarry, using delegated powers. But Manor Property Group says it is confident of a successful appeal, so still hopes to open the educational facility in 2021.

A council officer’s report on the proposals recommended refusal, stating the development would constitute “unnecessary and unsustainable development in the open countryside” and would harm the character of the area.

The same report also cited insufficient information provided on the scheme’s transport implications and concern that building at this location would create a continuous ribbon of development between the distinct settlements of Welton and Melton.

However, Group Education Director of Manor Property Group, Ruth Gilbert, said“This project is vital for the region. We are seeing high levels of youth unemployment, yet many industries are experiencing skills shortages and we have a low uptake of apprenticeships in the area.

“This is a situation that must be addressed – for the sake of young people in the region, and for both employers and the wider economy.

“The proposed Qdos Career Hub will offer impartial, relevant advice in a cutting-edge environment. Taking children out of the classroom and into a creative, purpose-built space will inspire them – and give universities, colleges and future employers the opportunity to engage with far more young people than they would currently be able to.

“Careers education is a huge priority in the region – highlighted by the collaborative approach we have been able to take with Humber LEP and most local authorities. We’re grateful to the Humber LEP for taking a proactive approach to regional co-ordination and sharing insight to their work to date.

“The council’s decision to turn down our initial planning application is disappointing, but we very much believe in the project and the benefits it will bring to the whole community. We will be pursuing our mission to ensure local children get the access they need and deserve to high quality careers advice.”

Former county councillor and school chair of governors, Helen Gilmour, said: “I’m delighted to see a local business, Manor Property Group, spearhead investment in this critical regional education service.

“Our young people need to know the opportunities they have – beyond the National Curriculum – if we are to inspire them to enter new and growing career opportunities, and generate increased economic prosperity for our children and our region.”

A further Qdos Careers Hub is planned for Blackburn with Darwen, which carries the support of the local Planning Officers and Blackburn with Darwen Council.  The site was introduced by the Northern Power House Minister.

A Task Group has been established by the council, consisting of local educators and businesses to support the delivery of this hub. Manor’s Group Development Director, Mark Bailey, confirmed negotiations are advanced for further Qdos Career Hubs in Rotherham and Liverpool.

Proposals for the Qdos Careers Hub can be viewed at www.qdos-career-hub.com

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