A LEADING college unveiled its vision for the future yesterday as work on a major extension got under way.

Architects released a computer-generated image of how the £650,000 refurbishment of Northallerton College will look once building work is completed.

A new block of eight classrooms is being created by Michael Severs Associates, together with college staff, who say they want to provide a 'flexible and modern learning environment.'

The development is the second phase of a long-term improvement scheme at the college.

A re-modelled resource centre - with an extra 60 work and study stations - has already come into use, as well as an improved reception area and administration complex.

The new-look classrooms will be used mainly to teach maths, but two other rooms - a science laboratory and a computer multimedia suite - are also being refurbished.

The block is being built at the north end of the college campus, almost opposite the Tesco store on East Road. Two temporary classrooms have been demolished to make way for it.

College vice-principal John Kelly, who is in charge of the scheme, said: "The block is aimed at keeping pace with the expansion of a thriving and successful college, which is bursting at the seams. We want to ensure that it provides an exciting place to work and study."

Work on the project, which has been financed by both the college and North Yorkshire County Council, is due to be completed in September.