A SCHOOL to train construction workers for HS2 projects could be built in Solihull.
Total Training, based in Olton, is looking to expand its skills centre based at the Arden Brickworks in Bickenhill.
Plans going before Solihull Council show offices, a mess room and toilets to support a training area for heavy machinery.
Rookie construction workers would be trained in operating heavy plant such as diggers, rollers and dumper trucks.
The Arden Eco Park, location of Bickenhill tip, is in the Green Belt, but planning agent Richard Cobb believes the new school provides special circumstances for a change of use.
In proposals to planning officers, Mr Cobb said: “The proposed training area is intended for training construction workers to work principally on HS2 and local/regional infrastructure projects.
“It will include a temporary building for classroom training, welfare purposes for the trainees and their instructors – in detail these will include an office, mess room, changing area and WC plus car parking for around 18 cars.
An ecological survey showed badgers have a sett in nearby quarry bunds, bats forage in hedgerows and quarry pools have been home to great crested newts.