A PLANNING application to build a four storey learning centre at the former Ebbw Vale steelworks site will be discussed by the council’s planning committee next week.

If given the go-ahead the building will provide a post-16 centre for vocational and academic learning.

This will be the latest development of the £300 million joint venture between Blaenau Gwent council and the Assembly on the former Corus steelworks site which is due to open in 2010.

Other facilities on the site will include a new general hospital and a family history and genealogy centre which will house the Gwent Record Office and feature the latest in interactive technology including a digital newspaper archive, interactive games and a 3D cinema.

It is expected the whole development will provide 2,000 new jobs for the local community.

The proposed building which will cover 17,213 square metres, including outdoor space, and will be more than 20 metres high, will provide areas for public learning such as hair and beauty shops as well as teaching classrooms and workshop areas.

There will also be space for outdoor learning, social and dining areas as well as space for deliveries and parking.

The design of the building will be contemporary with features such as grass roofs and gardens.

The building will form part of a wider learning campus at the site.

The Argus reported last week how the Assembly had funded £35million to help develop the Ebbw Vale Learning Works by providing a school for children aged three to 16 as well as a centre for sports, leisure and arts.

Blaenau Gwent planning committee will discuss the application at a meeting on November 5.