June 4 2013.

The partners behind Newhaven's new University Technical College (UTC), due to open in September 2015, aim to redevelop the landmark marine workshops on Railway Quay in Newhaven as the pioneering new centre of learning.
 
The Grade II listed Marine Workshop was constructed in 1882 and used to repair both train and ship engines and was actively used until the early 1960s.
 
The site has been vacant for a number of years and the current owner, the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), has offered the site to the UTC as part of its commitment to building better futures for children and young people through education, enterprise and employability.

Councillor James Page, Leader of Lewes District Council said: "I'm absolutely delighted that this major project has got the go ahead and am fully behind the use of the Railway Quay site for the UTC. I believe that local people will be pleased to see the buildings put to good use. We have had our first request for a place for a student from a parent, which bodes well for the future."

The new college will provide 600 students with the opportunity for technically oriented study, in professional surroundings. The proposed location fits well with the college's specialisms in marine and environmental engineering, offers a meaningful link with Newhaven's impressive manufacturing past, and will link learning with real life experience and employment by providing a completely new educational environment.

The college is being designed in partnership with local and national employers to ensure that students are provided with clear routes into jobs or further education and that they are ready for the world of work. Discussions are underway with government officials to finalise plans for the site.