A £1.2 million construction centre opens at Riverside College in the autumn.

The investment at the Kingsway campus means that students can develop their practical skills using the latest equipment and technology.

New courses in environmental technologies are being planned and higher levels in plumbing and electrical installation will be introduced.

It comes as the £600 million Mersey Gateway is expected to create new jobs in Halton.

Shaun O’Malley, head of construction, said: “With this centre we can ensure our students will be leaving us with the skills and knowledge that will future proof their careers.

“Job prospects in the construction industry have never looked so bright, as local investment in large projects such as the Mersey Gateway will bring many jobs to the area.

The new centre is due to open in September for students studying construction, brickwork, plumbing, joinery, painting and decorating, and electrical installation.