The BIM Academy will train students and allow them to develop hands on experience working with contractors and architects. Contractors will also be able to send staff to receive training at the new academy.

Professor of Building Modelling at Northumbria University, Steve Lockley, said: “There are many in the industry who still do not appreciate the advantages of integrated project delivery and the potential of BIM in achieving it.

“There are also those who are keen to adopt but require support and encouragement in doing so. BIM Academy will promote awareness and deliver support in the key areas of research, development, education and consultancy.”

The Government Innovation and Growth Team predicted that “BIM is seen as having the greatest potential to transform the habits – and eventually the structure – of the industry”.

And Government will shortly unveil plans to adopt BIM across all public sector projects worth more than £5m within five years.

Mark Thompson, managing director of Ryder Architecture, said: “Ryder invested in the development of BIM six years ago because the practice foresaw the efficiencies and improvements it can bring to design quality and project delivery.

“Development of BIM Academy through our partnership with Northumbria University is a natural and yet ambitious step which we have been working on since 2009.   As a practice, we have been using BIM extensively and therefore are probably one of the UK’s most experienced adopters.

“We believe it is vital to share this experience with industry peers to achieve the transformation the industry needs to survive the current economic climate and thrive in the future.”