A local housebuilder has reinforced its commitment to nurturing the next generation of construction professionals at Weston Construction College, Weston-super-Mare, thanks to a substantial donation of 10,000 bricks for education and training purposes.
The special delivery from Persimmon’s Severn Valley business reflects the company's dedication to supporting local construction talent and was marked with an event at the College’s state-of-the-art construction facilities in the company of apprentices, local MP Dan Aldridge and councillors, Ciaran Cronnelly and Catherine Gibbons.
The bricks, enough to build a three-bedroom house, will be used by students at Weston Construction College, enhancing their practical learning and bricklaying skills. The significant contribution aligns with Persimmon’s ongoing investment in community and education, as demonstrated by their substantial development at Haywood Village in Weston-super-Mare.
This development, set to deliver 2,500 new homes for local families and first-time buyers, also includes the construction of two new primary schools and a local centre, further embedding Persimmon’s impact on the region.
Over the last five years, Persimmon’s activities in the South West have resulted in the construction of over 2,500 new homes, supporting over 12,000 jobs and contributing approximately £14 million in benefits to local communities through council tax receipts, section 106 agreements, and community infrastructure levies.
Commenting on the donation, Bob Simpson, Construction Director at Persimmon Severn Valley, said:
“We’re delighted to support Weston Construction College with this donation of 10,000 bricks. This initiative is part of our commitment to fostering local talent and ensuring students have the materials and experience they need to develop their skills.
“With our significant ongoing scheme at Haywood Village, where we’re delivering 2,500 homes for the community, it’s crucial for us to cultivate a strong pipeline of skilled local construction workers.
“We believe investing in education today strengthens the workforce of tomorrow and supports the broader community’s growth and development, and we’re delighted to work with Weston Construction College.”
Dan Aldridge, Member of Parliament for Weston-super-Mare, commented:
“I am delighted to see Weston Construction College benefiting from this generous donation from Persimmon. The College’s training facilities are excellent, and it’s inspiring to see so many young people engaged in learning and apprenticeships that will equip them for careers in construction.
“Supporting local talent is crucial as we look to build a skilled workforce that can meet the region’s growing housing and infrastructure needs.
“I commend Weston Construction College for its dedication to preparing students for the future and Persimmon for investing in our community's next generation of builders.”
Vicky Howell at Weston Construction College, expressed their gratitude and said:
“On behalf of the College, I would like to offer our sincere thanks to Persimmon Homes for its generous donation.
“As part of our ongoing partnership, these bricks will provide our students with invaluable opportunities to further their hands-on training and skill development.”
Ciaran Cronnelly, Councillor for Weston-super-Mare Winterstoke, commented:
“Persimmon have a significant presence in our town so its great to see them expanding that through partnerships like this one with Weston College, equipping our housebuilders of the future with the tools they need for a successful career.
“After donating to the local foodbank during my term as Weston’s mayor, it’s great to see Persimmon once again demonstrating a commitment to the local community, helping the College continue their great work.”
Catherine Gibbons, Councillor for Weston-super-Mare Milton, added:
“This generous donation is a fantastic example of how local businesses can make a real difference in shaping the future of our community.
“By investing in the training and development of our young people, Persimmon is not only supporting the next generation of skilled tradespeople but also ensuring that Weston’s growing housing and infrastructure needs are met with local talent.”
https://www.persimmonhomes.com/