Apprentice Helps Build The VAF

Essex County Council's Pre Apprenticeship scheme has helped two young men get into work, taking part in one of Colchester's most iconic new buildings.

Building for the VAF gallery is due to be completed in June this year but there's still no firm date as to when the Visual Arts Facility will open.

The VAF has been the centre of controversy over recent years, costing well over £16M and running behind schedule. 

Mace the new project managers of the project has decided to give two Colchester lads work experience on the building, as part of Essex County Council's pre-apprenticeship programme.

If the scheme is successful more young people will be offered the chance to work on the project.

17 year old Ferris Adams of Crimea Walk is one of those taking part in the project. He said: "It's great that I've been given a chance to work on a project as big as this. One day I want to work in this industry, and I'm grateful to have a chance to experience working on a live construction site."

County Councillor Jeremy Lucas said: "This is a building for the community, and it is pleasing to see local residents benefiting from it, even before it has opened. Community engagement will continue long after the building has opened, with arts organisation Firstsite offering a range of community workshops and learning facilities."