Work has officially begun on Morley’s ambitious new multi-million-pound Learning and Skills Centre, marking a major milestone in the town’s drive to expand opportunities for adult education, skills development and career progression.
The project, a cornerstone of the Morley Town Deal programme, will see the Grade II-listed St Mary’s in the Wood Church transformed into a modern, fully equipped education hub. Built in 1900 and located on Commercial Street at the heart of Morley’s newly revised conservation area, the building was purchased by Leeds City Council in October 2023 using funds from the £24.3 million Town Deal grant awarded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
The centre will be operated by Leeds City College and will deliver courses designed to help residents upskill in key growth sectors such as technology and innovation. Planned training areas include coding, virtual reality, 2D printing, general IT skills, and essential subjects such as English and maths — equipping adults with the qualifications and digital literacy needed to compete in a rapidly evolving jobs market.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for economy, transport & sustainable development said:
“The start of work on the new Morley Learning and Skills Centre is a major step forward in providing a legacy of opportunity to the people of Morley through the government grant.
“Morley Town Deal consultations have consistently shown the ambition of Morley people to be able to access high-quality adult learning and upskilling opportunities locally.
“With its focus on delivering technology-based learning, the opening of the new centre will deliver on those ambitions and help many generations of people to thrive in the future.”
Following the granting of planning permission in late 2024, Bermar Building Co Ltd was appointed as the project’s delivery partner after a competitive tender process. Construction will involve extensive restoration work, including repairs to the roof, façade, windows and doors, and improved accessibility with a new front entrance ramp.
Inside, the building will undergo a full refurbishment to create a high-quality learning environment, complete with a new lift and a purpose-built pod in the main hall to maximise space.
Gerald Jennings, chair of the Morley Town Deal board said:
“The Morley Town Deal board has worked hard to develop a skills agenda that is both aspiring in its goals and sustainable in helping to future-proof the town’s workforce and provide lasting opportunities.
“The Morley Learning and Skills Centre, with its wide range of education and upskilling opportunities, is a legacy the Town Deal can be proud of, as it will provide people with opportunities for generations to come.
“I look forward to watching the exciting plans for this incredible learning institution take shape over the coming months and for the people of Morley to start enjoying the benefits the centre will provide.”
Leeds City College’s Director of Curriculum for Adults, Jo Dye said:
“We and our partners, Leeds City Council, have great plans for Morley and know that this centre will help so many people gain the training and education they, and local businesses, need.
“Major projects like this always involve overcoming challenges; we cleared the funding hurdle and now, with the appointment of Bermar Building Co Ltd as the contractor, we have reached another significant milestone.
“With the building work now underway, residents can look forward to seeing this exciting development, which will breathe new life into a much-loved former church hall in the heart of Morley, start to take shape.
“The result will be a centre that offers flexible learning opportunities, designed to fit around busy lives, access to digital facilities and training for all.”
Respecting the building’s heritage is also central to the project. A commemorative plaque will be installed, and the church’s original pews, an important link to its past — will be carefully restored and reintroduced by the college’s RE: Workshop, known for its innovative approach to creative upcycling.
Rob Moon, Managing Director of Bermar Building Co Ltd said:
“We are thrilled to be working with the Morley Town Deal, Leeds City Council, and Leeds City College on the construction of the new Morley Learning and Skills Centre.
“As a company that specialises in restoring heritage buildings, it is exciting to be able to develop such a forward-looking resource for the people of Morley, while also retaining the character and heritage of a building that has been a part of the community for over 100 years.”
When finished, the Morley Learning and Skills Centre will become a key community hub, widening access to skills training and supporting residents to improve their employability and career prospects. Construction is scheduled for completion by autumn 2026, ushering in a new chapter of education and opportunity for the town.
To keep up to date with the latest news from the Morley Town Deal, please visit www.morleytowndeal.commonplace.is
