'Absolutely thrilled' - New, multi-million pound learning centre opens in Boston (IN PICTURES)

The Mayflower is located on the former site of Ingelow Centre, in Rowley Road, opposite the Geoff Moulder Leisure Complex.

It is the latest addition to Boston College’s portfolio of sites.

Developed as part of the Boston Town Deal, the 1,940 sq m building has been made possible through £9.9 million in Government funding, alongside £725,000 in capital co-funding, and more than £5.5 million in revenue costs committed by the college over five years.

In addition to acting as a base for education, the Mayflower also aims to be a community hub. In this spirit, it includes business units for start-ups, conference and digital hub facilities, and amenities such as a café, restaurant, and a hair and beauty salon, where students can gain hands-on experience. On top of this, it offers voluntary services, careers advice, and skills development opportunities.

Lynette Leith, Boston College principal and chief executive officer, said: “I am absolutely thrilled at the opening of the Mayflower building. This investment marks an exciting innovation in skills, and community inclusion.

“By bringing students, employers and local partners together under one roof, we’re creating new opportunities that will benefit our learners, our neighbourhoods and the wider business economy for years to come. At the college we are both excited and proud to bring this new concept to life.”

It was in June of last year when the soil was officially broken on the project.

The building – which opened on November 10 – was designed by YMD Boon, of Market Harborough, and constructed by regional firm R G Carter.

It includes features celebrating Boston’s maritime heritage, such as artwork depicting the historic Mayflower shipping route.

Catering and hospitality students were first to move into the new site, with higher education learners now also based there.

The college’s restaurant, Eden, has also relocated to the building, while the new café, 1620 (named after the year the Mayflower sailed to America), is now open.

The college’s hair and beauty salon will launch shortly, featuring updated branding to match its new home.

An official opening celebration is planned for late January. Anyone local businesses or organisations interesting in hiring the building’s offices and conference facilities, should contact [email protected]