A pioneering programme to provide training and apprenticeships at the Kirkstall Forge development has been announced.
Kirkstall Forge developers CEG say the scheme could provide hundreds of training and job opportunities on the site off Kirkstall Road, which is one of the largest redevelopment projects in the North.
The initiative will deliver vocational training and personalised work placements for local 14 to 16 year olds as well as apprenticeships, pre-employment, training and employment advice for those unable to find work and keen to retrain.
Jon Kenny, Director at CEG, said:
“We are committed to … ensur[ing] that local people, particularly the young, are able to access the new employment and training opportunities on our site. It will ensure that we can raise skill levels and benefit the local labour market.”
Councillor Lucinda Yeadon (Labour, Kirkstall) added:
“This is a fantastic opportunity for people and in particular, young people, in Kirkstall. I am looking forward to seeing the development progress and the benefits it will bring to the local area.”
The council will promote the scheme by working closely with schools and colleges and ensuring information is available in community hubs and other community organisations. Office space and resources will also be available on the Kirkstall Forge site to assist with job search and employment preparation activity.
The first phase of the Kirkstall Forge development is the delivery of a 15,534 sq m, seven-storey office building, which is set to start on site early in the New Year. The new railway station will open later this year, providing a direct connection to Leeds city centre.