Richmond upon Thames College (RuTC) marked a significant milestone in the redevelopment of their site with a ground break ceremony, attended by Sir Vince Cable and construction partner ISG.

The ceremony celebrated the start of construction at the building which is a major part of RuTC’s new £80 million campus.

RuTC’s principal Robin Ghurbhurun said: “I would like to thank everyone who has been on this journey with us and for your commitment and expertise in helping create, what will truly become, a world class post-16 centre of excellence.”

Barbara Gilgallon, Chairwoman of RuTC governing body, said: “The breaking ground ceremony is symbolic for us in a crucial way. It is the start of a journey that represents a physical manifestation of what we truly believe to be a truly groundbreaking exercise.”

Sir Vince Cable, Leader of the Liberal Democrats and MP for Twickenham thanked everybody who had “helped steer a very tricky project through to the breaking ground stage.”

The 15,000 square metre building is due to be completed at the end of next year. Almost 3,000 students, employers and members of the local community will be able to make use of the wide range of facilities which will be available.

The building will include a TV studio, theatre, art gallery, silver service chef’s academy and a spa and wellness centre.

More than 70 people attended the ceremony, hosted by the college and Project Director Richard White.

RuTC construction apprentice, Will Whitmore was given the responsibility to break ground to mark the start of the project.

The redevelopment of the whole 22 acre site is a partnership between Richmond upon Thames College, Haymarket Media Group, Harlequins, Clarendon School and Richmond Council.