The benefits from the opportunities the Boston Town Deal is providing are now coming into fruition. This month, the much anticipated Boston College Digital Transport and Logistics Academy (the DTLA), officially opened its doors. This pioneering building will lead the way in delivering skills training for Lincolnshire’s logistics and transportation sector.
Funded by a £2.45 million grant from the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership (GLLEP), with the College paying the remaining £1.05 million, the project received an additional £182,976 worth of accelerated funding from the Boston Town Deal to purchase industry standard equipment as part of the Towns Fund grant.
The DTLA will offer brand new courses that will provide much-needed skills training for Lincolnshire’s established logistics and transportation industry with a focus on digital innovation and technologies for the future. Facilities include a transport workshop, computer rooms, a network and hardware computer room and a student break-out space.
The vital equipment funded by the Town Fund grant includes a driving simulator for the transport sector and HGV and electric/hybrid training rigs. Digital resources are also available to serve as learning aids from basic IT skills all the way to cutting-edge smart technology to ensure local employers are prepared for Industry 4.0.
Investment within the logistics and transport sector is vital to Boston; not only to create jobs but also to underpin and future proof our thriving manufacturing and agri tech / food sectors. Boston is a hub for these industries and as investment strengthens within the sectors it is essential we have a logistics industry which can support growth.
The DTLA is just one of a number of dynamic and momentous projects that are being driven by the Town Fund Deals; a once in a lifetime opportunity to transform our town and surrounding area.
The logistics and transport industry provides approximately 40,000 jobs in the South East of Lincolnshire which is why this project is so vital for the region. It will accelerate the support for skills and employment, not just for our young people but also adult learners.
It will also ensure that current and future provision will meet the skills needed, both locally and nationally and that the courses delivered are relevant to the employment opportunities available. They will also make sure industries are able to continue to grow and develop, which is vital to sustain a flourishing local economy.
Michelle SacksDeputy Chief Executive (Growth) - Boston Borough Council
Boston has brought together a dynamic and ambitious Town Board and developed a vision and Town Investment Plan which has secured a Town Deal worth £21.9m. Helping Boston to deliver ’economic productivity through urban regeneration, planning and land use, skills and enterprise infrastructure and connectivity.