This is the first look at the new Barnsley Sixth Form College planned for Shambles Street.

 

The £17 million sixth form, if given the go-ahead by Barnsley Council, should be completed by 2015 and will increase the number of A-level students from 850 to 1,150.

 

Barnsley College principal, Colin Booth, said: "I am delighted that our excellent A Level teachers and future students will have an inspirational new sixth form college building to work in from September 2015.

 

"It is very good news that a new sixth form college will be built in the centre of Barnsley. The college is working closely with Barnsley Council on how to ensure the new building has the best possible impact on the overall development of the town centre."

 

The proposal will be discussed by the council's ruling cabinet on October 23 when members will be told the preferred location is the 1.56-acre site bounded by Shambles Street, St Mary's Gate, Westgate and John Rideal House.

 

Subject to successful negotiations with existing tenants at the Shambles Street shops/offices parade, this would see the demolition of the central library building and adjoining shops and offices begin in the spring.

 

Council leader, Sir Steve Houghton, said: "The proposal indicates the sixth form college would have the potential to bring £7.7 million into the local economy.

 

"Following on from the recently completed town hall square modernisation, it would create an inspirational and vibrant building, at a key location, that would dramatically improve this gateway into the town centre."

 

Cabinet members will also be asked to approve a recommendation to relocate the library and Citizens' Advice Bureau to vacant offices at Wellington House in Wellington Street, which would undergo an extensive refit. The proposed library relocation will be subject to consultation with library users.