The five-storey, state-of-the-art buildings are to provide modern tools for helping staff and students get the most out of their courses.

The huge project will encompass the Lawrence Building and Boating Club Lane on Strand Road and is expected to be completed by 2010.

The Lawrence Building will include enhanced provisions for engineering and computing laboratories, as well as general classrooms, modern reception and staff work areas.

On the opposite side of the road, the Boating Club Lane building will feature high-quality facilities for performing arts, music and drama, a teaching theatre, and additional specialist music accommodation. The building will also house a student social area, including a coffee bar and recreational areas, and new high quality facilities for the college's hairdressing and beauty therapy provision.

A spokesperson for the college said staff and students were very excited about the developments.

"The project forms part of a £31m phased programme of work to provide new buildings and upgrade existing accommodation over the next seven years, and it underpins our commitment to the provision of top-quality learning and support facilities for our students and staff.

"We are confident that the work will be completed by May 2010, and when ready, it will position us as one of the leading providers of state-of-the-art learning accommodation in the province."

Raymond McCartney, Sinn Féin MLA, said investment in the build was great news.

"The tech has for years provided a first class higher education to the people of Derry and further a field and this investment will provide the facilities to continue this work."