UCLan Preston gets go-ahead for student centre

The latest project in The University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) Master Plan has been given planning approval by Preston City Council.

Designed by Hawkins Brown following an international RIBA competition, the proposed Student Centre and a modern civic square will be the focal point of the University’s £200M Master Plan development.

Also part of the overall plan, the university is currently constructing an Engineering Innovation Centre – as reported in last week’s news (11 January).

The new Student Centre, which has targeted a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating will be 7,304m² providing a new reception area, informal learning spaces and a student wellbeing support centre.

Designed as an iconic gateway to the City, the new square will span 8,440m2 providing flexible and adaptable spaces for a wide range of community, public, business and student uses.

Michael Ahern, Chief Operating Officer at UCLan, said: “Securing planning approval for this flagship project is fantastic news and we’re extremely grateful to the many people and organisations who came forward to provide us with their views during the consultation process. Their contribution was invaluable.

“It’s another significant step toward delivering a centre of learning where people of all interests and backgrounds can feel at ease, comfortable in their physical surroundings and supported in their academic, social and business aspirations.

“This project is of significant importance. Not only will it transform our campus but will positively contribute to the ongoing regeneration of Preston.”

Work on the site could start in early 2019 with the Student Centre and square completed during the summer of 2020.