THIS is the first definitive look at Burnley’s £10.1million university technology college at the town’s Victoria Mill.

Plans have now been submitted to the borough council for the ambitious 14-19 education project by the Visions Learning Trust.

And this is the first artist’s impression of the main frontage, off Trafalgar Street.

It is hoped that the development will kick start the regeneration of the Weaver’s Triangle district — council bosses are working on a major business and residential scheme for the remainder.

Steve Gray, chief executive at Training 2000, Visions’ lead spon-sor, said: “Submitting the planning application means that we are one step closer to realising our dream of establishing East Lancashire’s first UTC and I’m delighted we are at this stage of the proceedings.

“The trust will offer an alternative to traditional education routes and will engage young people through hands-on, vocational learning that will give them a real flavour of what life is like in the world of work.”

Steve Rumbelow, chief executive, Burnley Council, added: “The vision is to make Burnley a centre of educational excellence, a regionally significant centre for advanced manufacturing, digital and creative industries.”

Nelson-based Barnfield Construction is at the helm of the development which, if approved, could see the college operational by September 2013.

The final funding agreement for the UTC is expected to be signed off by Government ministers later this month.

Work could starts on the site as early as June, depending on planning consent.