North Shropshire College is celebrating national recognition after its Oswestry Campus Reception and Refectory refurbishment was Highly Commended at the 2025 LABC Building Excellence Awards.

The project has transformed the College’s main reception and dining areas into bright, welcoming, and inclusive spaces for students, staff and visitors. The new facilities include vibrant social and study areas, updated kitchen and café facilities, and custom-designed furniture that reflects the College’s refreshed branding.

Warm lighting, acoustic panelling and sustainably sourced European ash finishes combine to create a calm and contemporary atmosphere, while improved accessibility features, such as new braille and wayfinding signage, ensure that the campus is welcoming for everyone.

The £600,000 redevelopment was delivered on time and on budget by YNGR Design Ltd and Matrix IDC, working closely with Shropshire Council Building Control. Despite the challenges of working on a live campus, the project was completed with minimal disruption to college life, thanks to careful planning and a strong collaborative approach.

Head of North Shropshire College, Sadie Gardner, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled that our Oswestry campus redevelopment has been recognised at the LABC Awards. The new reception and refectory have transformed how students and staff use the space. It is now a vibrant, inclusive and welcoming heart of the College community. We’re grateful to everyone involved for their hard work.”