Hayley MaceThe start of a �50m redevelopment of Lowestoft College cleared its first hurdle as it was approved by planners this week.The step in a scheme to transform the St Peter's Street site into a new modern campus was backed by Waveney District Council's development control committee on Wednesday night.Hayley Mace

The start of a �50m redevelopment of Lowestoft College cleared its first hurdle as it was approved by planners this week.

The step in a scheme to transform the St Peter's Street site into a new modern campus was backed by Waveney District Council's development control committee on Wednesday night.

The plans include a two-storey foundation studies block and a three-storey engineering and technology centre, to be built on the existing college car parks - the first stage of a massive project which will eventually see the recognisable 45-year-old tower block demolished.

If further plans are approved in future, the wider master plan for the site would see most of the existing buildings knocked down to make way for modern facilities including a computer area, outdoor piazza and new workshops and classrooms.