It was predicted this week that around 100 jobs will be created during a major construction project in Co Antrim.

The Northern Regional College (NRC) facility is to get an extension housing a new Skills Centre - appropriately for construction industry trades - as well as for heavy motor vehicle training.

The new facility, to be located on the existing NRC site at Shore Road, will also see the refurbishment of the existing engineering and construction facilities.

A new kitchen facility with student dining and social area will also be provided in the contract which has been awarded to south Belfast-based firm H & J Martin.

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The contract is part of a £10m investment by NRC and is due to be completed in August 2010.

Stormont Finance Minister Sammy Wilson said: "While real difficulties are being experienced by the private sector, public sector spending on construction has continued at its highest ever level, contributing to some 40% of the industry's total output.

"Not only will this investment provide a first class facility for our students, it will also provide much needed work for the local construction industry.

"Some 100 people will be involved in the construction of the project and I am delighted that a local family firm, H&J Martin Ltd, has been successful in winning this major contract."

He also said that staff in Central Procurement Directorate have been working closely with the Department of Employment and Learning, the lead funder for the project, incorporating best practice project management and procurement processes to develop a sustainable design that will fully meet the needs of the College in the 21st century.

(BMcC/JM)