Multi-million pounds agri hub opens at Askham Bryan

The new Lance Gilling Building features lecture rooms with the latest IT technology, a farm information room, offices and a 900 square metres double height workshop with specialist equipment.

The facility, which is a joint venture with the York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Enterprise Partnership, will be the focus of practical studies by the 300-plus students studying agriculture and land-based engineering at the college.

Nigel Pulling, the chief executive of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society which has strong, historic connections with the college, was invited to formally open the building which has been named in honour of the late Lance Gilling, a leading agriculturalist and the college’s longest serving principal. Several members of his family, including his widow, Mrs Brenda Gilling, attended the ceremony. Mr Gilling was also a former chairman and president of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

Mr Pulling said: “If we want a successful rural sector we need a well trained and well educated work force. Having the best buildings and equipment is an important part of this.

“We need to encourage and train the future Lance Gillings. For this we need the highest quality facilities and staff. This new building underlines the College’s commitment to land based education and is symbolic of Askham Bryan’s continued progress to be at the leading edge of education and training.”

The building is also home to AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board) and the Rural Business Research Unit, and is used as a training centre by Trimble, a provider of advanced location equipment.

Other guests at the opening included the Lord Mayor and Mayoress of York, the Sheriff of York’s Lady, and Mr Barry Dodd, chairman of the local enterprise partnership.