£1.5m investment to create modern learning facility for employment and skills support

Barnsley Council has approved a £1.5 million investment to create a new, modern learning facility at Gateway Plaza — a move designed to enhance learning and work environments for residents while saving the council £440,000 each year.  

The investment will support the relocation of the Employment and Skills service from Wellington House to a newly refurbished Level 6 at Gateway Plaza. The new space will provide a high‑quality, well‑maintained environment designed to support learners into the future.

The relocation to council‑owned Gateway Plaza will achieve a saving of £440,000 every year. These savings can be reinvested into essential frontline services that benefit communities across the borough.

The Employment and Skills service plays a vital role in helping local people to gain skills, improve job outcomes, and contribute to inclusive growth. The facility will be the new home to Pathways to Work, Adult Skills and Community Learning, and the Targeted Information Advice and Guidance service for young people.

The work of each team makes a significant contribution to the delivery of Barnsley-born initiative, Pathways to Work. The model provides personalised support to help people move into, stay in, and progress through work by bringing health, wellbeing, skills, and employment support in one place.

Refurbishment work will begin soon, with the new facility scheduled to open for learners in September 2026.

Supporting learners through the move

The council recognises that moving from Wellington House marks a significant change for some learners. The Employment and Skills service is committed to making the transition as smooth and comfortable as possible.

To support learners, a consultation process will take place over the coming months to keep current learners informed, listened to and supported. Staff will work closely with learners to understand their individual needs and help build confidence as they prepare for the change.

Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said:

"It is important that learners have access to facilities that are modern, well‑maintained and fit for purpose. This investment allows the council to deliver exactly that. Moving into a council‑owned building also offers excellent value for money, saving £440,000 each year that can be reinvested into essential public services.

"We want learners to feel reassured and positive about what the new space will offer. By taking a thoughtful and supportive approach, we aim to create a more sustainable, welcoming and high‑quality environment that helps people feel confident, comfortable and ready to achieve their goals."

Barnsley’s Pathways to Work service helps people who are out of work, looking to progress, or facing challenges such as poor health or caring responsibilities.

Information about available support can be found at pathways-to-work.co.uk.