The ultra-green £20 million building received a blessing from the Very Reverend Canon Anthony McBride before the leader of Manchester City Council Sir Richard Leese unveiled the official plaque.

 

Principal Ms Clynch, who led the opening ceremony, said it was a great day for the college and a remarkable achievement.

“Ellis and Kennedy Building is the culmination of eight years of rebuilding across the college campus. It has, of course, been the work of many hands, but two especially deserve special thanks. Sean Gaughan and Tom McGee have steered the four building phases with great skill and efficiency, leaving a lasting testament in bricks and mortar to their dedication and expertise. ”

The Ellis and Kennedy building has the latest in energy-saving technology with solar panels, an underground heat transfer system, natural ventilation and a roof that collects rainwater which is re-used. The light and spacious building contains fantastic teaching facilities including a recording studio, television studio and theatre.

 

The building has been named after Mother Alphonsa Ellis, who was a founding member of Loreto College, Manchester, and Mother Evangelist Kennedy who was a pioneering force in the education of young women.

 

Guests at the opening ceremony also included people who had helped develop and build the Ellis and Kennedy Building as well as colleagues from other colleges and schools.

 

Paul Allen, Managing Director of Management and Property Consultants AA Projects commented : “Having worked with the College for over 10 years on estate redevelopment and renewal, we are delighted to be here today for the official opening of these outstanding new facilities which mark another remarkable milestone for the College and for the local community”.