The new build at The College Ystrad Mynach will encompass 13 classrooms, a new library, improved catering facilities and public areas for learners, exhibitions, competitions and public events, providing the college with the much needed space for the 14,000 learners that walk through its door each year.

"Over the last 10 years the College has grown extensively in both student numbers and provision. The new facility will allow us provide our learners with leading edge teaching facilities and much needed social areas for our learners," said Bryn Davies, Principal of The College.

In the building of the new block, The College will be aiming to achieve BREEAM (BR Environmental Assessment Method) excellence rating. Plans are ahead to include a biomass boiler, natural ventilation, rainwater harvesting and a ‘green roof’.

Building will start on the 1,744m² block in June 2009 with work completed by September 2010.

The funding is part of a £50m investment project by the Welsh Assembly Government to improve facilities of Colleges in Wales.