Students at the construction skills accelerator being built in Gloucestershire will have access to the latest digital detection technology to development techniques due to a new partnership.

AccXel, who are behind the Cinderford centre, has agreed the deal with Leica Geosystems who provide premium sensors, software and solutions.

Leica will contribute a selection of equipment ranging from digital locators, ground penetrating radars, construction lasers and total stations for the purpose-built training area with machine control training using state-of-the-art simulators.

AccXel managing director Nicola Bird said: "I've had experience of Leica Geosystems' products over the last four years and have seen some of the least digital-savvy people excel and grow alongside its introduction.

"Having seen this first hand, I believe there is huge benefit in AccXel having digital construction as a foundation to all its courses, which will support and accelerate learning and application in the workplace.

"We live in a modern world with tech in our hands every day. Offering the opportunity to get hands-on with digital construction at AccXel will attract newcomers and their learning is reflected in the industry's mission to become more sustainable, lean and efficient."

AccXel is co-funded by family construction firm K W Bell Group and backed by almost £2million from the Government's Getting Building Fund, awarded via GFirst LEP.

Aiming to welcome its first learners through its doors in January, K W Bell is working in collaboration with Gloucestershire College and the University of Gloucestershire and with support from local employers in England and Wales and industry representatives including global giant JCB.

Leica director for heavy construction Neil Williams said: "The construction industry is undergoing a digital revolution and constructing in a digital way is becoming the new norm.

"It's critical that new entrants to the industry are educated in new digital methods but also that those already in construction have a facility to enhance their own learning.

"It's fantastic to be involved with AccXel, helping learners get to grips with the latest equipment. We're excited to be exposing people to using new technologies and processes, teaching skills that we need now, and in the future, to realise how digital construction can make working on site safer, offering less rework and increased efficiencies."