West Nottinghamshire College (WNC) has unveiled a new £5m creative arts centre - Create - as part of a wider programme of development to transform its Derby Road campus.

The new arts facility will provide media, music and performance students with facilities such as workshop and rehearsal space; a 150-seat performance theatre; and arts/dance studios. In addition to accommodating more than 200 students, WNC is also hoping that Create is to become a hub for local musicians, performers and touring companies.

Create is the first phase of a wider £24m programme, which will see a series of developments undertaken at the institution and the adoption of a new identity - Vision West Notts. On 31 August, Mansfield District Council gave the go ahead for a new six-court sports hall; a sports science lab; a spectator area; and modern changing facilities.

Work is now expected to commence on the new sports facility - to replace WNC's existing gymnasium - in November, following the council's decision. Taylor Young are the architects for both schemes. Elsewhere, other redevelopment plans include an "iconic building" housing hair and beauty salons; a health spa; and a fine-dining restaurant for training and commercial use.

WNC principal and chief executive Asha Khemka said: "[Create] promises to further boost our growing reputation in the creative industries and be a resource that our communities can be proud of. "Our ambitions are to bring more world-class buildings and facilities to the area and give students and employers unrivalled education, training and learning opportunities."

Image: The 150-seat performance theatre will also be made available for community use