Work Begins on Morley Learning and Skills Centre

New education hub aims to support adult learning and skills development

Construction has started on a new Learning and Skills Centre in Morley, designed to provide education and training opportunities for adults in the local area. The project involves converting the former St Mary’s in the Wood church hall on Commercial Street into a facility focused on enhancing skills in sectors such as technology and innovation.

Building conversion and funding

The building, a Grade II Listed former church hall, was acquired by Leeds City Council in 2023. The purchase was funded through the £24.3 million Morley Town Deal grant, awarded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Bermar Building Co Ltd has been appointed as the contractor responsible for the conversion work.

The redevelopment aims to preserve the heritage of the building while adapting it for modern educational use. Plans include restoring the original pews, which will be reinstalled after refurbishment by a creative upcycling workshop, and installing a commemorative plaque recognising the building’s history.

Courses and learning opportunities

The centre will offer a variety of courses aimed at improving employability and career prospects. Subjects planned include:

• Coding
• Virtual reality
• 2D printing
• General IT skills
• English and maths

The courses are designed to provide flexible learning options to accommodate the needs of adults with busy schedules.

Local support and future outlook

Leeds City Council’s Deputy Leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, highlighted the importance of the centre in meeting local ambitions for accessible adult education and upskilling.

Gerald Jennings, Chair of the Morley Town Deal board, emphasised the project’s role in future-proofing the local workforce and providing lasting opportunities for residents.

Work on the centre is expected to be completed by autumn 2026, with the aim of creating a resource that benefits multiple generations in Morley.

Contractor’s perspective

Rob Moon, Managing Director of Bermar Building Co Ltd, noted the significance of combining heritage restoration with the development of a modern educational facility. He described the project as a forward-looking resource that respects the building’s longstanding role in the community.