News

Work to begin on development of UK’s first virtual reality construction management training centre

21st August 2007

Work is to start on the UK’s first virtual reality construction management training centre in the West Midlands.

Regional development agency Advantage West Midlands has signed a contract with Coventry University Enterprises for a grant of £6.3 million to build and develop the Centre for Advanced Construction Technologies.

Coventry University Enterprises can now secure the licence for UK and Ireland from Dutch developers Schrijver Project Management BV, develop the courses and systems for the UK’s first Construction Management Simulation Centre (CMSC) and build the centre.

The simulator comprises a large auditorium, an 11m X 3.5 m parabolic VR screen displaying real UK construction projects, giving an immersive experience, 11 site huts and professional actors to simulate ‘real life’ on site scenarios for training and developing construction managers.

Experienced site managers will supervise the trainees to ensure the best of on-the-job learning is achieved.

As well as the CMSC with its focus on site management, the centre will also offer training in advanced applications of virtual reality and simulation to planning, design and supply chain working. There will also be an industry showcase, a dedicated construction IT training centre and business facilities.

The Dutch BMSC is currently running taster and pilot course for the UK construction industry which will continue until the UK centre opens.

For more details on ACT-UK contact contact Harry Hammersley, product and communications director, on 024 7615 8400 or e-mail harry@act-uk.co.uk