Green Skills Training Centre
a purpose-built construction skills and green technology training centre for Worcester City Council
a collaborative project between Worcester City Council & Worcester Community Trust
Community
Industrial
Education
Askew Cavanna Architects were appointed as Architect and Lead Designer for Building Block Two – a purpose-built construction skills and green technology training centre for Worcester City Council and Worcester Community Trust (WCT).
Measuring 300m², the building provides a workshop, classroom, reception space, toilets and storeroom. More than just a training facility, it is a place for the community to come together, learn, and feel supported.
The centre empowers people with practical skills in green construction techniques, preparing them for meaningful careers in plumbing, carpentry, sustainability, and retrofit – trades that are essential to the UK’s transition to a greener economy.
“Everyone involved has worked incredibly hard to create a space where the local community can develop skills for the future. It has been a pleasure to work with Askew Cavanna and Barnwood Ltd on the design and build of this project, and I look forward to continuing our partnership with GLP Training as they begin delivering courses here.”
Helen, Chief Executive of Worcester Community Trust
At its heart, Building Block Two is about social sustainability. Located in a deprived area of Worcester, the centre strengthens the work of Worcester Community Trust (WCT) – a charity that operates six Community Hubs across the city. Community work is at the core of all of WCT’s hubs, where they deliver a wide range of services, from food banks, nursery care and providing facilities for parties, sports groups and training days.
The new building is located on the site of the Green Hub Community Centre in Dines Green, and as a result enhances existing networks of care and opportunity, creating a safe and welcoming environment for young people and adults alike.
“Our Town Investment Plan was focused on enhancing training opportunities within our community centres. These centres play a vital role in bringing people together, offering support and learning for residents of all ages.
It’s fantastic to see Building Block Two come to life, providing even more chances for people to develop valuable new skills. We hope this facility will support Worcester’s construction industry and help equip residents with the skills they needed to thrive.”
David Blake, CEO of Worcester City Council
The design process placed the community at the centre. A two-month consultation led by Askew Cavanna shaped the building’s character, with residents influencing the choice of natural materials and soft finishes.
Externally, the landscaping works with nature to encourage biodiversity and wellbeing. A new swale and meadow, sown with meadow mixture for wetlands, emorsgate seeds, grasses and wild flowers create habitats for wildlife. Sparrow nest boxes support local species, and native hedgerows frame the site. Sustainable travel is promoted through bike storage and EV charging points.
Funded by the Government’s £3.6 billion Towns Fund, the project was delivered on time and within budget thanks to strong collaboration between client, consultants, contractor, and community stakeholders.
Building Block Two now houses GLP Training, who deliver apprenticeships and skills programmes, helping to close the skills gap in Worcester and open new opportunities for local residents.
The result is an interior that feels warm and inviting – plywood linings, timber joinery, and wood-wool panels that soften the acoustics and create a calming atmosphere, not typical of a workshop.
A sense of ownership is felt by the local community, built through the meaningful engagement process, ensuring that the building is embraced as a shared resource.
The exposed structure and services internally additionally support hands-on teaching, making the building itself a learning tool.
“We’re thrilled to officially open Building Block Two. This new centre represents a fantastic opportunity, not only to support local individuals and employers with high-quality training, but also to attract students and businesses from across the UK to the area. We’re proud to play a role in developing the region’s skills, strengthening the local workforce, and contributing to the wider economic growth of Worcestershire.
Building Block Two will be a vital hub for developing essential, in-demand skills - particularly in plumbing, carpentry, sustainability, and retrofit - where there are critical shortages not only locally, but nationwide.”
Gemma Parsons, CEO of GLP Training
Our projects include the design of buildings for community groups and charities, affordable eco housing and hostels, low energy offices and commercial refurbishments.
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