Work Begins on Morley Learning and Skills Centre

Conversion of historic church to provide new education facilities

Construction has started on the Morley Learning and Skills Centre, a project that will transform the former St Mary’s in the Wood Church into a modern education hub. The centre aims to support adult learners in Morley by offering courses designed to improve skills and qualifications, enhancing employability and career opportunities.

Project background and funding

The Grade II-listed church building, dating from 1900, was purchased by Leeds City Council in October 2023. It is located on Commercial Street within Morley’s revised conservation area. The acquisition and redevelopment are funded through a £24.3 million Morley Town Deal grant awarded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

The centre will be managed by Leeds City College and is a key part of the Morley Town Deal’s skills agenda. It will offer courses in areas including coding, virtual reality, 2D printing, IT skills, English, and maths, focusing on sectors such as technology and innovation.

Restoration and refurbishment plans

Planning permission for the conversion was granted in late 2024. Bermar Building Co Ltd was appointed as the contractor following a competitive tender process. The restoration work includes:

• Repairing the roof, façade, windows, and doors
• Improving accessibility with a new entrance ramp and lift installation
• Refurbishing the interior to create flexible learning spaces
• Constructing a pod in the main hall to maximise usable space

The project is expected to be completed by autumn 2026.

Community and educational impact

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council, highlighted the importance of the centre in providing local adult learning opportunities. He noted that the project reflects the ambitions expressed during Morley Town Deal consultations for accessible, high-quality education and upskilling.

Gerald Jennings, chair of the Morley Town Deal board, emphasised the centre’s role in future-proofing the town’s workforce and providing lasting educational opportunities.

Jo Dye, Director of Curriculum for Adults at Leeds City College, said the centre will offer flexible learning options tailored to residents’ needs and local business requirements.

Preserving heritage

The development will retain elements of the building’s history as a place of worship. A commemorative plaque will be installed, and the original pews will be restored and reinstalled by the college’s RE: Workshop, which specialises in creative upcycling.

Rob Moon, Managing Director of Bermar Building Co Ltd, expressed enthusiasm about working on a heritage building while creating a forward-looking educational facility for Morley.

Further information

Updates on the Morley Town Deal and the Learning and Skills Centre project can be found at morleytowndeal.commonplace.is and on the Morley Town Deal Facebook page (@morleytowndeal).