47 million pound college project for HBG

Bunnik, Netherlands, 19 August 2008 - HBG has been awarded a £47.5 million contract to build a new college campus in Watford for West Herts College, consolidating the current two campuses in the town into one.

The work involves demolition of college buildings at Hempstead Road and the construction of a three- and four-storey concrete-framed building. This will accommodate classrooms and lecture rooms, a theatre and performance areas, associated support and administration areas. A 'spur' wing will contain a mall area, open to the public, featuring a café, restaurant and hair and beauty salon run by students.

HBG's work will be completed in two phases starting in April 2010 when the new building is handed over. This will be followed by demolition of the remaining buildings, construction of car parks and final landscaping, all due for full completion March 2011.

Also involved are architect the Weedon Partnership, project manager Watts Group, structural engineer BDP and quantity surveyor AYH.

This project is part of HBG's extensive education portfolio that includes school, college and university projects across the UK. Current work in the sector is valued at around £1 billon, making HBG a leading provider of education facilities.

Further information: A.C. Pronk, + 31 (0)30 659 86 21.