Future aircraft engineers will hail from Bromley after it was confirmed that an aerospace and aviation college will be built at Biggin Hill Airport.

The £12 million facility – the London Aerospace & Technology College – will offer training in mechanical, electronic and service engineering.

London and South East Colleges (LSEC) announced the news and said the college will open in September 2019.

In its first year 250 students will be offered spaces, and this will rise to more than 750 by 2021/2022.

Orpington MP Jo Johnson said it was “fantastic news”.

He added: “This project will produce skills and opportunities for Orpington, while also increasing local employment.

“This vital project, which has been achieved through the collaboration of industry partners including LSEC, Biggin Hill Airport and Bromley Council, will help the country address the chronic shortage of aerospace engineers and the wider skills desperately needed by our aviation industry.”

Chairman of LSEC Stephen Howlett said: “Young people in Bromley and further afield will benefit from first-class industry training, helping to develop the next generation of aircraft engineers and technicians.

“This will provide tangible and exciting career pathways, while supporting the region’s economic development and growth.”

The Greater London Authority (GLA) provided funding for the new college.

Chairman of Biggin Hill Airport Andrew Walters said he was “delighted” the college, which has been on the agenda for years, was now a reality.

He said: “As the fastest growing business aviation airport in the Europe, our focus is on inspiring and training the aerospace industry professionals of tomorrow and we’re delighted that with this investment, our vision can now take flight.”