THE PRINCIPAL of a £26m college redevelopment project says it is ‘fantastic’ that it is ahead of schedule.

Orpington College was given the money by the Government’s Learning and Skills Council (LSC) to provide state-of-the-art facilities which will help regenerate the town centre.

It also secured a £1m bank loan.

Buildings dating back more than 30 years have already been demolished and the construction of a new hi-tech four-storey block is near completion.

Principal Simon Norton said: “The great thing about the development is that we are several months ahead.

“We are hoping to have it finished by Christmas.”

Work on the project started in July last year with it originally expected to be completed in early 2010.

The redevelopment will also include revamping its landmark 11-storey tower block overlooking Orpington town centre with a newly designed reception and refectory area.

The college will also boast a new study centre, eco-friendly heating and cooling systems, student café and social area, along with its sports hall benefitting from a new roof and other major improvements.

Mr Norton adds: “I think this development will make a huge difference to our students at the college.

“I think it will be really fantastic and we are very excited about it. If you give people nice surroundings I think they respect them.”

So far five of the floors within the tower have been revamped and the existing library will be turned into extra classroom space.

The college, which has 1,300 students, will include a natural colour scheme, including greens and browns.

Mr Norton added: “All the staff and students have been absolutely brilliant and have worked around all the construction work.”

In October workmen on the site got a surprise when they dug up an Anderson bomb shelter from the Second World War.

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