Blackburn College in the UK has announced a multimillion-pound restoration plan for its Victoria Building.

British construction company BAM has been selected as the contractor for this project.

The project is said to be one of the largest in the UK, with the 135-year-old structure hoped to become a key component of Blackburn’s town centre master plan.

Works on the Grade II structure are scheduled to commence this month, following the receipt of funding from the country's Department for Education (DfE) and planning approval from Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

The building will be enclosed by scaffolding and a protective wrap during the first phase of the project before BAM, working closely with DfE Technical Advisors, will begin work on the property's crucial structures.

Most of the original classrooms and meeting halls, which had been partitioned to accommodate offices and storage space, will be restored as part of the process.

Panelling, coving, and stained glass will also be renewed, as well as the removal of false ceilings, and a refresh of hallways, stairwells, and reception spaces.

Meanwhile, the building’s upper floor will be converted into a live performance space for student and community activities.

Blackburn College's principal and CEO Fazal Dad said: “The restoration of the Victoria Building is much more than just an upgrade of learning facilities; it will bring a magnificent community and civic asset back to life and create new opportunities for everyone.

“Furthermore, it will act as [a] gateway to the wider Blackburn College campus, which is also enjoying a significant multimillion-pound investment in new learning facilities, classrooms and equipment.”

Temporary classrooms will be constructed in the adjoining college's car park following the closure of the Victoria Building later this year.