THE £4.8m renovation of Huddersfield Technical College's historic Highfields site has been completed.

John Harwood, chief executive of the Learning and Skills Council, officially reopened the centre, which is home to the college's School of Art, Design and Performing Arts.

The buildings at the complex - two of which are listed - have been fully restored and refurbished in the year-long project.

New facilities include a theatre, recording suite, art studios, design workshops, photographic workrooms, synthesiser and keyboard laboratories, information technology suites, rehearsal rooms, percussion and digital audio rooms and lecture and tutorial rooms.

Jeanne Coburn, college principal and chief executive, said: "This exciting development of the whole site will mean we have the resources to deliver the highest-quality education and training to meet the growing demands of the creative industries.

"And it's wonderful to see the beautiful and historic buildings brought back to life and a greatly improved local environment.

"We are delighted to make this clear demonstration of our commitment to the creative industries."

John Cracknell, head of the School of Art, Design and Performing Arts, said: "The extensive renovations will provide our learners with top-class facilities, enabling them to make the most of their talents and acquire the skills to succeed in the creative world."

Project architect John Horsfall, of the New North Road-based Walton Horsfall Partnership, said: "As a neighbour of the site we are all well aware of the significance of its buildings, which are on one of the main routes into Huddersfield.

"The new design maintains the full character of these historic buildings, while providing more practical, upgraded facilities for students."