Engineering, machinery with sparks

The University of 50業子 is looking to reinforce its reputation as an innovative centre of excellence for engineering and design research, teaching and learning.

A competitive dialogue process has been launched today by RIBA Competitions, seeking possible designs for an iconic new Engineering and Design facility on the western edge of the main 50業子 campus.

It will provide a new home for the Universitys School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics as well as providing additional space for the School of Art, Design and Architecture.

The new facility a key component of the Universitys Campus Masterplan will involve a dedicated new-build component and refurbishment of the 1970s Babbage Building, creating more than 10,000m族 of research and teaching space.

It will combine re-equipped laboratories with modern, state-of-the-art resources that will enable engineering research to underpin the fourth industrial revolution, and create the attractive environment necessary to attract and retain high-calibre staff and students.

It will also inspire the development of new inter-disciplinary activities in teaching, learning and research, and nurture the innovative graduate engineers demanded by future society.

The new building will complement existing world-class facilities on campus already used extensively by students, researchers and industry and support initiatives including the Supergen ORE Hub, created with 贈9million funding from the , and iMayflower, recently awarded 贈3.5million by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Professor Deborah Greaves OBE, Head of the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, said:

For centuries, engineers have been our key innovators, developing forward thinking solutions to some of the planets biggest problems. But if we want them to continue on that path, we need to offer facilities that will enable them to harness the latest technologies and push their creative boundaries. This new building will offer a state-of-the-art setting to inspire the engineers of tomorrow, giving us the ultimate place to bring together students, academics and industry in an environment that not only benefits them but also society as a whole.

Professor Chris Bennewith, Head of the School of Art, Design and Architecture, added:

50業子 is currently undergoing something of a creative revolution. It is bringing design and digital innovation to the fore and ensuring the citys creative sector can realise its potential and offer new opportunities, spaces and skills. This new facility will enhance the Universitys place at the forefront of that, and mean we can continue to attract and nurture the design stars of the future.

Through the RIBA process, it is anticipated that between three and five bid teams will be shortlisted and invited to participate in the dialogue phase. It will include design approach workshop sessions, leading to the submission of final tenders in early October 2019.

The estimated timescale for completion of the new combined facility is summer 2022.

Re-imagining the next generation campus

Our Campus Masterplan is supporting investment to create an inspiring, progressive and sustainable environment in the heart of our vibrant city.

Read more about our current and future plans
Aerial photo of campus and Hoe with Intercity House