North Devon College is moving to a new state-of-the-art £100m campus, it has been confirmed.

The college will relocate from its current base on the outskirts of Barnstaple to the banks of the River Taw, which is located near to the town centre.

The new building is expected to be completed by September 2011.

According to the college, the project is the biggest single infrastructure development ever recorded in North Devon and Torridge.

Three quarters of the total cost will be funded by the Learning and Skills Council, with the remainder coming from a number of other bodies.

"This is a fantastic result for all the learners of North Devon and Torridge which will help realise the nation's ambition to increase participation for post 16 learners and raise attainment for adults," said Dr John Chudley, area director for the LSC Devon and Cornwall.

"The new estate at Seven Brethren will provide the college with the facility necessary to support the excellent provision which is already being delivered at North Devon.

David Dodd, North Devon College: "This is unbelievably brilliant news for the people and businesses of North Devon, it is something that is really needed to support both North Devon and Torridge."

"It will also provide the infrastructure to increase the number of young people on the path to success whilst also engaging with more employers and businesses in a bespoke 21st century environment."

North Devon College described the proposed Seven Brethren site as "an exciting and impressive, purpose built centre of learning, designed to create an environment that will drive up the aspirations of the local community".

Located between the leisure centre car park and the Tarka Tennis Centre, the new college will boast a river facing state-of-the art theatre, restaurants, hair and beauty salons and sport facilities that will be accessible not only to college students but the community as a whole.

It is envisaged that the new college estate will be at the heart of the community, with people accessing the college not just for learning but as they would when they go to the shops, pub, restaurant, football or other aspect of life.

"The impact of the new college will bring an exciting and positive change to Barnstaple Town’s layout, complimenting the new Barnstaple Bypass by creating a new look entrance to the heart of the town," North Devon College said in a press release.

"The college's proposed new location will benefit from improved transport links, with both the train and bus stations being easily accessible. The college plans include dedicated bus drop off points outside of the college which will help alleviate traffic."

College principal David Dodd added "This is unbelievably brilliant news for the people and businesses of North Devon, it is something that is really needed to support both North Devon and Torridge.

"The building itself will make a world class architectural statement that will encourage and challenge people and businesses to be aspirational about what is possible and to be entrepreneurial and innovative in their approach.

"We are aiming for everyone in North Devon and Torridge to use the new College to gain those vital qualifications and skills from introductory to degree level coupled with the fun side of recreational experiences that are integrated into college life. Indeed we see the new building as a Cathedral of Learning."

North Devon College currently has about 3,000 students enrolled.