Last year the Observer revealed plans on a similar scale from Chichester architects HNW, but the new ideas come from architect Hawkins Brown, based in London.

The man heading up the project team is former college student David Bickle, who is aiming to bring the college into the 21st century.

"I never in a million years thought I would come back and do this. I feel very fortunate to be in this position," he said.

"I have happy memories of being at the college as a student and it doesn't seem all that long ago.

"The aim of the project is to help the college to achieve their aim for a state-of-the-art college, withfacilities fit for the 21st century – a next-generation college for Chichester."

Mr Bickle was at the college from 1979 until 1982 studying an Ordinary National Diploma in building construction.

He added: "Chichester College helped me into my career, I would not be here today if it was not for them."

The work includes creating a more defined passageway through the middle of the college to make it easier for visitors and students to access the various blocks.

Stemming from the central pathway will be four finger-like blocks, four storeys high, branching out, three of which will be built on the sites of existing block. In between the blocks will be courtyard areas.

Specially-built workshops will run parallel to the central pathway.

The departments currently based in Terminus Road will be moved back to the campus.

The block at the far western end of the college will be replaced and include the salons, restaurants and performance spaces, which will give better access to the public from the car park.

To fund the project the college has submitted a bid for the majority of the money to come from the Learning and Skills Council, which will make a decision on the application by autumn. The college will be putting £16m towards the final bill.

College principal Dr Richard Parker said: "We are delighted with the plans, developed by our architects Hawkins Brown, to create a world class campus with buildings designed for 21st century, where the latest technology and teaching facilities are available to staff and students.

"Chichester College attracts students from across Sussex, the UK and worldwide. To continue to be so successful we need to offer all our students an outstanding learning environment. This redevelopment enables us to do this."



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