Minister of State for Local Government and Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE MP, visited Cheshire College – South & West’s Ellesmere Port campus, where he witnessed the College’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in education.
The Minister’s visit to the area was planned as the region is part of the government’s Devolution Priority Programme, which includes plans for local control over key areas such as skills development and economic growth in Cheshire and Warrington. Minister McMahon was joined on the tour of the College by leaders of the three local authorities.
The tour included the College’s new Eco House, a cutting-edge £680,000 sustainable living project designed to provide students with hands-on experience in green technologies.
The Eco House offers an invaluable learning environment where students gain practical skills in sustainable construction, renewable energy, and green technologies — critical industries as the UK transitions to a low-carbon economy.
During his tour of the Eco House, Minister McMahon observed how the College is at the forefront of providing students with the practical experience needed to fill the skills gap in the UK’s green economy. The house is equipped with sustainable features such as ground source heat pumps, allowing students to engage in real-world projects focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy systems.
Mark Parsons, Assistant Principal of Curriculum at Cheshire College, spoke about the significance of the Eco House: “This facility is more than just a classroom; it’s a hub where students can apply their learning in a real-world environment, preparing them for careers that are critical to building a sustainable future.”
“The Eco House is a testament to the importance of hands-on education in green skills that will have a lasting positive impact on both our students and the planet.”
Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE MP said:
“It was a pleasure to meet local leaders from across Cheshire and Warrington to discuss next steps on our Devolution Priority Programme.”
“There’s a huge opportunity here to take on powers over key areas like skills and planning that will help drive local growth and job creation – a key aim of this government’s Plan for Change.”
“This would help turbocharge the work already underway here through initiatives such as the Eco House skills scheme, and so I look forward to seeing the area progress on the journey to greater devolution.”
Cheshire College’s focus on sustainability is not only helping to address the UK’s skills shortage but also supporting the region’s economic growth. As Cheshire and Warrington move forward with their devolution plans, green skills education will be pivotal in ensuring the area remains at the forefront of a low-carbon, inclusive, and thriving economy.
