Built in the county, for the county and by county businesses - the new £15.8 million Gloucestershire College Forest of Dean campus has officially opened.

Hundreds of students were welcomed during a busy enrolment day on Tuesday (September 4) to the new campus, which forms a major part of the Cinderford Northern Quarter regeneration project.

According to the college the building - designed by county architects Roberts Limbrick, built by Gloucester-headquartered Barnwood Construction and part funded by GFirst LEP - will house some of the best post-16 education and training facilities in the country.

Staff and students celebrated the opening with ribbon cutting, cake and speeches with Barnwood Construction handing over the keys to Gloucestershire College principal Matthew Burgess and Sandra Tyrrell, assistant principal, Forest of Dean campus.

"After a busy summer of preparation, we are delighted to open our brand new campus on time and to schedule.

"I'd like to thank all our key partners for supporting us and helping make this initiative a reality - Homes England, G First LEP, Forest of Dean District Council and Gloucestershire County Council." Mr Burgess.

Ms Tyrrell said: "The feedback we have already had from students, parents and members of the local Forest community about our new campus has been incredibly positive.

"The teaching facilities here are second to none, set alongside modern and vibrant study and relaxation areas."

More than 400 students have already enrolled at the new facility.

The lakeside campus boasts big open-plan spaces; commercial facilities and workshops; a touchdown area for large groups and presentations; panoramic views over the stunning Steam Mills lake; and a clear belonging with its rural surroundings.

The heart of the campus embodies a community street; a large central space for work and play, lined with commercial, student-run services such as a hair and beauty salon and a restaurant with fantastic panoramic views across the surrounding countryside.

After their enrolment, students and apprentices will begin their studies at the new campus next week, across disciplines including art and design, beauty, business, catering, computing, construction, early years, foundation studies, hairdressing, health and social care, outdoor education, and travel and tourism.

Environmental considerations were prioritised during the build - including a perimeter fence to protect rare newts and dormice; a sedum-planted roof and automated window blinds to shield bats from light spill.

Energy efficiency considerations included installing solar panels, using local contractors for the build, compacting and recycling all waste off-site; installing automated LED lighting throughout; installing electric induction technology for cooking; and sealing the building with energy efficient ventilation, cooling and heating.