Plans in for multi-functional centre at University of York

Designs for a new Student Centre at the University of York have been submitted for planning permission.

Co-designed by leading architectural firms ADP Architecture and O’Donnell + Tuomey, the new building is intended to offer an iconic new arrival point on Campus West.

The university said the building will be built largely from natural materials and renewable sources, including reconstituted stone with plans for solar panels, rooflights and solar controlled glazing. The centre will also reach high sustainability standards including ‘net zero carbon’ accredited by the UK Green Building Council.

The £35M building will be designed to the latest environmental, health and sustainability standards and will offer a variety of spaces, specifically designed for student use.

These will include events and flat floor spaces, collaborative study areas, studios for student radio and TV, as well as a new home for both the university’s student unions and frontline student support services. There will also be places to eat and drink and a rooftop garden.

It will be surrounded by landscaped gardens offering students spaces to sit and relax away from their studies.

It is hoped that, following the planning permission process, building work will begin in the spring of 2024, with students able to access, and use, the new facilities in the academic year 2025/26.