A DELAY-hit skills centre for York pupils has opened three months behind schedule.

The Danesgate Centre, City of York Council's new vocational skills centre at Fulford Cross, opened its doors for the first time on Monday.

The flagship centre, which will offer pupils the opportunity to study for diplomas and other vocational courses, was due to open in October last year, but delays with building led to a new opening date.

The Press reported in November that workers downed tools and stopped building work over a pay dispute which further delayed the project, but now the centre is up and running.

Aimed at young people aged 14 years and over, the state-of-the-art centre is expected to benefit around 60 young students per year by offering them a structured introduction to vocational learning.

The opening of the skills centre represents a significant step forward for City of York Council in terms of tackling barriers that some young people face when looking to move into further education or employment.

The council has worked in partnership with Askham Bryan College and York College in developing the centre.

It has cost a total of £3 million, with the Government providing £2.4 million and the remainder being funded by the local authority.

The building is made mainly of sustainable materials and was constructed using wooden panelling.

It features a boiler that burns wooden pellets from copiced trees.

There is also rain water harvesting on site with collected water used to flush the toilets.

Jill Hodges, assistant director of school improvement and staff development for the council, said: "The main aim of the centre is to transform the learning experience for young people and encourage them to develop a commitment to, and enhanced understanding of, continued learning, whether that's in school, college or the workplace.

"These aims support and promote the overall 14-19 agenda of the council."

The centre will start by offering accredited courses in construction, horticulture and hair and beauty.

Coun Carol Runciman, executive member for children's services, said: "When I visited the Danesgate Centre, I was very impressed with the wonderful wooden building and its sustainable features including the wood chip boiler.

"This centre will be a great learning space for young people who will thrive on vocational learning.

"The Danesgate Centre is an excellent opportunity to provide some of York's young people with suitable post-16 training."