Completed Langage South development already helping skills and futures
The final touches are being put to the four high quality employment space units which range in size from 750 square metres to just over 2,000 sqm. The units have various sizes of workshop/production space, with fully fitted offices at ground and first floor level (with lift access), welfare facilities (including showers and changing facilities) and their own dedicated service yards and car parking (with EV charging pods).
The units at Beaumont Way have been built to exacting standards in terms of quality, flexibility and sustainability and is a Net Carbon Zero scheme with a host of energy saving features including solar glazing, led lighting, EV charging, solar PV, efficient electric heating and high levels of insulation to name a few – all targeted to reduce running costs for the end users.
But even before any tenants have moved in and due to Plymouth City Council’s social value interventions, Plymouth and South West Devon’s Freeport is helping to build careers and futures, thanks to Devon Contractors, who built the complex on the council’s behalf.
Two students from Brook Green Learning Centre who did work experience with Devon Contractors are now on bricklaying courses and two more are on multi skills construction courses. A three-week work placement through subcontractor Intoheat, led to another student being recruited as an apprentice.
And that’s not all. Over 30 students attended visits and workshops as part of Building Plymouth’s Work Experience Week and South Devon UTC engagement programme. These sessions gave young people a practical understanding of construction careers, site safety and project delivery.
Altogether the site saw:
- 8 work placements
- 6 jobs created – apprentices, new entrants and graduates
- 7 construction careers events
- 172 waged training weeks
- 17 qualifications gained
- 14 training plans
The contractors also collaborated with Skills Launchpad Plymouth to provide employability support for those leaving military service.
Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet member for finance said: “We ask contractors to consider social value as part of their work and the results here have been phenomenal.
“They have blown their own targets out of the water and have really opened doors for our young people. Taster sessions have helped students get a real flavour of the construction industry and hands on experience helps them grow in confidence.
“Raising aspirations of our young people and encouraging the next generation of workers is crucial to our growth strategy, making sure our own residents benefit from our ambitious growth agenda.”
Nigel Whelan, Managing Director at Devon Contractors, said: “Langage South has been a genuine team effort and a project we are all incredibly proud of. From the outset, we have worked hand-in-hand with the local community, creating opportunities for young people and supporting those taking their first steps into construction. Our partnership with DUCTU, Building Plymouth and local providers across the SEN/SEMH sector has enabled meaningful work experience placements, helping students build confidence, skills and a clear pathway into the industry.
“This development is also a testament to the hard work of our dedicated site team and supply chain. Their craft, commitment and professionalism are reflected in the quality of the finished buildings, which stand as a strong example of what can be achieved when everyone pulls together with a shared purpose. Well done to everyone involved, the final result speaks for itself.”
The units in Beaumont Way form one of three Freeport tax sites. The development was funded through a £4 million Freeport seed capital fund, which was match funded by Plymouth City Council. It is expected to support around 138 full time jobs.
The Langage Tax Site is the largest of three tax sites for the Freeport and is on the edge of the existing Langage Business Park. It is strategically significant as it provides the space and opportunities to support sector growth plans and economic specialisation, underpinning the Freeport’s trade and investment objectives. Tenants must specialise in either marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering or clean energy.
https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/news/completed-langage-south-development-already-helping-skills-and-futures