Work is set to start on site in early spring with a 48-week construction timetable.

The centre is expected to take on around 280 trainees per year specialising in the nuclear sector which is currently suffering from skills shortages as older workers retire.

Cumbria county councillor Tony Markley said: “I’m delighted that we’ve found a contractor who will lead us on the first steps towards making this valuable education centre available to the young people of Cumbria.

“Construction trades are very popular amongst young people looking to take their first steps into employment, but in the current climate it is getting increasingly difficult to break into the industry.

“The anticipated development of various infrastructure projects in Cumbria could mean that around 4,400 jobs being created.

“The Construction Skills Centre will ensure that local young people are able to take on these jobs with the training and knowledge to ensure that Cumbria’s economy will prosper for years to come.”