Dec 2025 • £8 ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Procurement Pagabo’s role in retrofit project at Dudley College of Technology Glazing Old Debenhams site now a modern teaching centre with state-of-the-art roofing Intelligent room control The latest room control systems are proving transformative Nottingham Trent goes big on digital NTU’s new Design and Digital Arts building addresses the challenges of the future highereducationestates
// Monitoring of individual room environmental conditions // Direct-to-Room communication // Nudges to affect behavioural change // Estate, block, floor, flat, and room reporting // Building, block, floor, flat, room and circuit metering // Estate/Peer Benchmarking // Maintenance scheduling // Precise locating of issues // Individual room temperature monitoring and CONTROL. ControlSensor + irus ecosystem. Control. Visibility. Intelligence. prefectcontrols.com Control+ Behavioural change Message individual rooms and encourage more mindful engagement with resources inspiring a reduction in wastage. Control+ Benchmarking With 75,000 controls over 150 sites Irus has more multioccupancy data than anyone other system. Benchmark against your sites or the entire Irus estate. Control+ Operational efficiency Data interrogation and reporting software tools inform how building services are performing and suggests . Control+ Visibility Each room has a ControlSensor communicating with the portal - e.g. supplementary heaters, rooms with humidity issues, or etc. Control+ Communication Direct-to-room messaging provides an unobtrusive communication tool. E.g. Parcel deliveries, Control+ Intelligence Information and data without action is just noise! Irus analyses data and suggests remedial actions to Vacant Find out how Irus halved the heating load at a student site in year 1.
highereducationestates 3 leader Student sector still a very good place to be CONGRATULATIONS to all involved in redeveloping the Stephenson Building at Newcastle University, which has just been named “Project of the Year” at the annual RICS UK Awards. Designed by the architects NORR, with input from Design North, and constructed by Bowmer+Kirkland, with Identity Consult providing cost consultancy and external project management, the hub is now a beacon for world-leading education, research and collaboration. It’s far from the first time that a university building project has been garlanded with prestigious awards, and should be a source of pride in a sector that is coming increasing pressure to retrench, not least because of the Government’s new and tougher line on overseas students, particularly post-graduates, who are no longer allowed to bring their families with them. In the 2023/24 academic year, there were 732,285 overseas students enrolled at UK higher-education providers, down about 4% from 2022/23. That decline marks the first fall in total international student numbers since 2012/13. Some UK universities — particularly in Scotland — have reported sharper drops, with international postgraduate-taught entrants down by 25–26% between 2022/23 and 2023/24. This trend is having a discernible impact on university finances, already under strain from student fees that have fallen behind the high rates of inflation hitting the economy and thus the sector. Yet the overall level is still very high: 732,285 overseas students in 2023/24 remains the second-highest total ever recorded at UK institutions. And international students still make up about 23–25% of the total UK highereducation student population. And certainly firms involved in building student accommodation are extremely busy. According to the consultancy and research firm Glenigan, the value of project starts on student accommodation schemes rose to £849 million in the three months to July, double the value in the same period a year earlier. In all, student homes accounted for 7% of total housing projects getting underway. Glenigan notes that overall student numbers are on the rise, and there is a growing shortage of places in purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) schemes. Which bodes well for those who work in the PBSA sector, as evidenced by investment in the sector growing fast. Knight Frank notes that £1.6 billion was invested in UK PBSA in the first half of this year, well above the long-run average of £1.1 billion. On that positive note, all of us at Stable Media wish you a very prosperous 2026. Editor Andrew Pring Head of sales Julian Walter Media sales manager Terry Stafford Production Nicola Cann Design Sandra Leal Cid Managing director Toby Filby The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. Publishers Stable Publishing Limited, SBC House, Restmor Way, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. sales@educationdab.co.uk Nottingham Trent goes big on digital NTU’s new Design and Digital Arts building addresses the challenges of the future. Story page 14 Andrew Pring Editor andrew@stable-media.co.uk
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highereducationestates 5 inside this issue December 2025 7 News The Stephenson Building at Newcastle University has been named Project of the Year at the annual RICS UK Awards. 10 Design Solutions The procurement specialist Pagabo describes its recent involvement in a retrofit project at the Animal Studies Centre at Dudley College of Technology. 14 New digital arts centre Design delivery work on Nottingham Trent University’s Design and Digital Arts building was led by CPMG Architects. 16 Glazing The former Debenhams site in Gloucester has been transformed into a state-of-the art centre for teaching, learning and community services, with Howells Patent Glazing supplying rooflights and mono pitch glazing. 17 Flooring Flooring from Shaw Contract played a crucial in Aston University's new John Cadbury House. 18 Maintenance Check your pump systems to avoid emergency call-outs says John Calder, technical director at Dura Pump, as he urges facilities teams to act now. 20 Fire safety Fire safety in further education is unsatisfactory in a quarter of premises says Bruce Robins, director at fire safety supplier at Checkfire, as he explores how further education can strengthen compliance and improve fire safety. 22 Intelligent room control Traditional heating strategies for student accommodation are no longer fit for purpose but new generations of intelligent room control systems are proving transformative, say Prefect Controls. “Growing demand for student accommodation makes it essential to look at alternatives to new build, says Tom Dodson, Refurbishment Director at Better Green Living p9
FIRMS involved in building accommodation to house the growing number of students in the UK are becoming busier, according to recent data from the consultancy and research firm Glenigan. The value of project starts on student accommodation schemes rose to £849 million in the three months to July, double the value in the same period a year earlier. In all, student homes accounted for 7% of total housing projects getting underway. A series of factors is driving up activity in the sector, says Glenigan. “Today, student numbers are on the rise, and there is a growing shortage of places in purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) schemes. Applicant numbers through the UCAS university admissions agency were up by 1.3% compared with the same point last year, with notably healthy growth amongst UK 18-year-olds (+2.2%) and overseas students (+2.2%).” Demand for new student accommodation is strongest in cities with highly regarded Russell Group universities. Today, London, Nottingham, and Leeds are expected to see the largest increases in supply, according to a recent report from agents Knight Frank. For now, demand for student accommodation continues to exceed supply. This year, just 1,609 new student beds had been added by the end of July, with 17,802 set to be delivered in time for the start of the 2025/26 academic year in October. Unite, the largest owner and developer of UK student accommodation, said earlier this year that the new supply of PBSA was down 60% on pre-pandemic levels, as high construction costs, planning backlogs, and building safety approvals take their toll. Meanwhile, private landlords who have traditionally rented homes to students in university cities are retreating from the sector, deterred by high mortgage costs and tighter regulations. But against a background of supply shortages, investment in the sector is growing. Knight Frank notes that £1.6 billion was invested in UK PBSA in the first half of this year, well above the long-run average of £1.1 billion. Today, Unite has a fully funded pipeline of off-campus accommodation, worth £925 million and concentrated around Russell Group universities. Unite also has an on-campus pipeline of 4,300 beds for delivery over the next three to five years. In May, the group unveiled a second university joint venture with Manchester Metropolitan University for 2,300 new beds in the city centre. This follows a similar partnership with Newcastle University, and the group is in talks on accommodation JVs with other academic institutions. PBSA sector in major growth push Morgan Sindall Construction begins major redevelopment at Warwick MORGAN Sindall Construction has started renovation works on the three accommodation blocks of Claycroft Residences at the University of Warwick - one of the largest banks of accommodation on the University's main campus in Coventry. The 17,000 sqm development comprises three individual accommodation blocks, providing 679 bedrooms arranged into eight-person flats. The scheme will look to breathe new life into the halls, built between 1994 and 1997, providing students with modern, high-quality living facilities. Internally, all bathrooms will be extensively redecorated with complete new flooring, sanitaryware and decoration and all bedrooms will be modernised with a painted feature wall. Construction will be delivered in three phases - with one block being redeveloped at a time - from July 2025 to September 2026. This approach will enable two buildings to remain in use at all times, allowing students to safely relocate between blocks during the academic year. The project was procured via SCAPE Venture - a framework specifically designed for privately funded projects across consultancy, civil engineering and construction. 6 highereducationestates news
ALISON Brooks Architects and Feix & Merlin have won the international competition to transform 61 Aldwych into a pioneering academic hub for the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). The design aims to breathe new life into the historic 17,600 sqm building on the corner of Aldwych and Kingsway, within the Strand Conservation Area in central London. Previously home to the Air Ministry, Television House and later ExxonMobil headquarters, the new scheme will provide LSE with a new “front door,” enhancing its central London campus with generous teaching, research and social learning spaces. Alison Brooks commented: “We’re thrilled to be working with LSE and Feix&Merlin to create an inspiring new teaching and research hub at 61 Aldwych. Our vision will transform the existing inward-looking monolith into an open, outward-facing campus threshold filled with organically connected convening spaces, light and greenery.” Tarek Merlin, co-founder and director of Feix&Merlin Architects, said: “We’re so proud to announce that Alison Brooks Architects and Feix&Merlin have been selected as the winning team for the reinvention of 61 Aldwych (61A) for LSE. This is a landmark moment for us - our biggest project to date. Our vision for this major heritage retrofit and nextgeneration learning environment was shaped through the lens of biophilic design - could this be LSE’s greenest building yet?” Julian Robinson, LSE’s Director of Estates, said the team’s “genuinely collaborative” dynamic and holistic approach to biophilic design principles stood out, adding: “The commitment to re-use and a relatively light but impactful intervention into the fabric, was appreciated - not just in terms of economy but also sustainability. The wholehearted embrace of integrated biophilic design, using specialist consultants, was distinctive and convincing and will create a new typology for social learning space at LSE.” The project is scheduled to start on site in autumn 2027, with completion expected in 2028. THE Stephenson Building at Newcastle University has been named “Project of the Year” at the annual RICS UK Awards. Located at the heart of the Newcastle University campus, the re-developed building spans 198,000 sqft and features research spaces, a student-run maker space and both specialist and multipurpose education spaces along with technical workshops and support. It was designed by the architects NORR, with input from Design North, and constructed by Bowmer+Kirkland, with Identity Consult providing cost consultancy and external project management. With a focus on digital manufacturing, sustainable propulsion and biomedical engineering, the hub is now a beacon for world leading education, research and collaboration. The project won the Refurbishment/Revitalisation award, as well as being named overall Project of the Year. The RICS UK Awards showcase the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure, recognising outstanding achievement, teamwork and companies. Commenting on the Project of the Year, The Stephenson Building, the judges said: “The project sought to reinvigorate the existing outdated and inefficient 1950s engineering block with a futureproofed refurbishment and a dramatic extension, expanding the floor area to house seven engineering disciplines. “The new vibrant atrium is central to highly functional study, workshop and collaboration spaces, letting in natural light and visibility across floors, reflecting the open and cross-disciplinary nature of the faculty. The welcoming, bright and well-designed accommodation has attracted a marked increase in female students, generated more research funding and led to best practice sharing amongst universities. “That this complex development was built on time and within budget to evident high quality, is testament to the project leadership. The Stephenson Building excelled against every judging criteria, resulting in a stunning world class engineering facility for teaching, research and industry partnership.” Student hub in Newcastle scoops RICS UK Project of the Year LSE looks to the future with Aldwych upgrade highereducationestates 7 news
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Is retrofit the answer to student living? Growing demand for student accommodation makes it essential to look at alternatives to new build, says Tom Dodson, Refurbishment Director at Better Green Living AROUND 2.2 million students will require housing next year, rising to a million new starters in a single year by 2030 – but despite a massive increase in new PBSA approvals, supply is not keeping up with demand, especially in the capital. Student bed approvals in London are set to hit 17,172 this year, a 555% increase in three years, but nowhere near meeting demand. In London, 400,000 students are chasing 100,000 beds, with a predicted shortfall nationally of up to 620,000 student beds by the end of 2029. It’s easy to suggest that we should just build bigger, taller or to lower standards to meet the need, but the last thing today’s climate-conscious young people want is for their university home-fromhome to be provided at the expense of the planet. Not only are new builds expensive and disruptive, but the environmental cost of tearing down existing buildings that could be creatively re-used is huge. Thankfully, sustainable living is a top priority for many universities, driven by the climate crisis, by growing student demand for more energy-efficient accommodation and by simple practicality. Faced with the pressure to provide housing for growing numbers of students, university estates teams are turning to the greener option of modernising existing buildings. Some may need little more than a refresh, updating amenity spaces to meet changing student needs and refreshing bedrooms and bathrooms. In the case of older campus buildings, a carefully managed refurbishment could transform an ageing, unfit-for-purpose dormitory block into sustainable, low-energy and future-proofed student accommodation. For example, we have been working with King’s College London since 2019, transforming its Stamford Street Apartments into comfortable and wellequipped student housing with a focus on sustainability, heritage and people-centric design. By breathing new life into characterful older buildings, the university has avoided the carbon-intensive processes of demolition and new construction, while creating high-quality student accommodation that attracts and retains students. Not only does retrofitting rather than building new result in 50-75% less carbon, it says something distinctive about the university itself, setting it apart as an institution that both values its heritage and looks to the future. It’s also a practical choice, as managing a project in careful stages means that it’s possible to refurbish occupied buildings with little inconvenience to residents. For example, At King’s College London we delayed any noisy works until after midday to respect students’ schedules. The brief for Stamford Street Apartments was to create a "home-fromhome" study environment that reflected the needs and aspirations of today’s students. Our design process included direct consultation with students themselves, who were asked to imagine what their ideal spaces might look like and what made them feel at home. This insight informed everything from furniture design to layout and materials, and in the process gave students real ownership of the project, offsetting any temporary inconveniences during the works. The result is a safe, inclusive environment, with 557 refurbished bedrooms and bathrooms and 90 upgraded communal and kitchen spaces. The design supports independent living and enriches the student experience, with spaces that balance privacy with opportunities to be naturally sociable, shown to reduce the drop-out rate for new students. In the end, retrofitting is a win-win – universities have sustainable buildings at a lower cost and with less disruption, local communities don’t lose valuable land and housing to students, and those starting university have comfortable homes that support their learning and their life experience. www.better-greenliving.com highereducationestates 9 retrofitting
Framework procurement in the world of retrofit AS colleges and universities across the UK navigate the characteristically fluid education system, elements like value for money and compliancy are becoming increasingly important for institutions looking to offer the best education spaces possible for our country’s next generation. Effectively creating spaces where students can flourish starts from the bones of the buildings themselves, in the processes that make them what they are. This is the case whether these are new buildings, or retrofitted ones - an especially important piece of activity as the UK continues to work to revitalise its dilapidated education stock. This is where effective procurement truly makes it mark. Setting the foundations for project success at the starting line, and where utilising experts is so important - like national procurement specialist Pagabo - who understand the fluidity of the education system through decades of public sector expertise. The potential of procurement can be seen across the education sector, and for frameworks that Pagabo manages, there has been considerable success. A groundbreaking example of this is the sustainable retrofit work at the Animal Studies Centre at Dudley College of Technology, procured through the Medium Works Framework managed on behalf of the Education Alliance Trust. The Medium Works Framework managed by Pagabo offers exponential potential for those in the education sector utilising it. It features more than 90 suppliers across a range of disciplines at disposal, giving education clients access to reliable, compliant, innovative and sustainable expertise to bring the potential of projects to life. For the Animal Studies Centre at Dudley College of Technology, the framework was utilised to transform a redundant 1950s building into a highperformance, low-carbon education facility. Following a competitive procurement process, Speller Metcalfe was appointed as lead contractor to deliver the scheme. Ahead of appointment confirmation, Pagabo provided a full procurement service offering. This included essential pre-market engagement to help shape a tender process that was as effective as possible and to ensure project requirements were fully understood by the contractors on the framework. In collaboration with the Dudley College team, the further competition process showcased quality questions and commercial scoring mechanisms to ensure top quality bids and increased competition, with the tender process being managed and administered by Pagabo. The project’s evaluation process was managed in line with PCR2015 regulations, including tender moderation, posttender queries reporting and award decision notifications. Ultimately providing a complete end-to-end procurement service. Delivered as part of a wider campus decarbonisation initiative, the £7.4m project prioritised deep retrofit over demolition and showcased a pioneering approach to carbon reduction that challenged standard construction methods, delivering quality energy performance and cost efficiency. The end results of the works showcase specialised animal care rooms, classrooms, a science teaching lab and a commercial style dog grooming suite. The sustainability success of the Animal Studies Centre serves a benchmark for low carbon construction and has integrated sustainable techniques and technologies throughout the entirety of the project. Sustainable reuse of the structure was chosen over new build work. With the aim to significantly reduce the carbon footprint in mind, activity included updates to the structure itself, along with asbestos removal. This sustainability focused shift resulted in the embodied carbon being cut to just 51kgC02e/m ² - far below Low Energy Transformation Initiative (LETI) school targets of 276kgCO2e/m². The procurement specialist Pagabo describes its recent involvement in a retrofit project at the Animal Studies Centre at Dudley College of Technology 10 highereducationestates design solutions
Other sustainable elements included the installation of thick installation and low-carbon mechanical and electrical system installation in the form of air source heat pumps, tailored to the building’s thermal efficiency. These efforts collectively have allowed the new facility to surpass the Department for Education’s new-build Energy Use Intensity (EUI) target, proving that existing students can be upgraded to near net zero operationally. Utilising reliable suppliers from within the Medium Works Framework offering, the project’s collaborative approach was placed front and centre - also championing compliance and shared responsibility. Additionally, it was delivered using the innovative Integrated Project Insurance (IPI) Lite model, forming the first trial approach for a retrofit scheme of a lower project value. Combined with the procurement route via the framework, the Animal Studies Centre has showcased how sustainability, innovation and collaboration come together to achieve significant performance improvements. From cost savings to lower carbon emissions, these improvements were also balanced with the role and journey of students too, creating a facility that works just as well for the client as it does for end-users. And, crucially, the project was delivered on time and £40,000 under budget. Emma Hesbrook, head of delivery in the Midlands at Pagabo, said: “It can often be assumed that refurbishment and retrofit schemes can be more intensive undertaking – and extra steps like asbestos removal leading to higher project costs. However, this project goes to show that with the right team in place and a collaborative approach to decision-making through the framework, zoned offering in on sustainable decision-making that those assumptions aren’t always correct. “From a procurement perspective, we want to support clients with getting the right suppliers for the job at hand – and in this particular case, the success is clear. Delivering sustainable schemes isn’t all about new-builds, and the Animal Science Centre shows that the right attitude delivers retrofit that doesn’t cost the earth – in both in cost and carbon.” Louise Lado-Brynes at IPInitiatives said: “The client has a delighted end-user team and a state-of-the-art animal care/ science centre. The client and end-user formed part of the alliance, hence ensuring the budget was spent on what was most important to them. It is standard on an IPI alliance for there to be midterm and end of project feedback sessions. “All the ‘blind alleys’ improvements and knowledge is recorded and shared including ‘people’ elements. The project was deemed more enjoyable than most traditional projects due to the nature of risk and reward, people feeling valued and the end result for the client.” Samantha Hunter, deputy director of estates and capital projects at Dudley College of Technology, said: “Pagabo's procurement solutions have ensured we are fully compliant with public procurement regulations, while supporting us to procure faster and more easily. We have always received expert procurement support and advice, simplifying and streamlining the process for us. The ability to direct award or carry out a competition has been invaluable for us to meet college demands, with added reassurance that we are accessing a range of reliable, pre vetted and trusted suppliers for works and services. “As a rule, IPI is used for larger contracts, however, we were keen to pioneer an IPI lite contract. With the support of Pagabo, we procured the first IPI lite model for Animal Studies Centre. “I am incredibly proud that the Animal Studies Centre is now an example of sustainable retrofit of a life expired building constructed in the 1950s, rather than a case of demolition and new build - which would have had a much larger carbon footprint. Delivered on time and under budget, to date the retrofit building has received nine awards and been shortlisted for a further 12. “Dudley College has been fully supported with our Sustainable Development Goals throughout the process of repurposing and retrofitting this existing building, while also procuring the tandem decarbonisation of our Broadway campus through further building fabric upgrades and a new energy centre.” www.pagabo.co.uk/frameworks highereducationestates 11 design solutions
Swimming pool converted to wellbeing space at Waltham Forest College WITH the college rapidly expanding its student body, finding new ways to accommodate educational and extracurricular needs was a priority. Studio DERA had already run a sustainable materials workshop for Waltham Forest College students, while building a hempcrete and timber community centre and nursery in nearby Higham Hill. College Principal & CEO Janet Gardner, then invited Studio DERA directors Max Dewdney and Marcel Rahm to reimagine the long disused swimming pool site and do a feasibility study. The architects decided that retrofitting the original structure and utilising natural materials was the most sustainable and efficient way to transform the space into an attractive and inspiring hub for students and staff. A RIBA Stage 2 Report and a strong design narrative that aligned with the college’s estate strategy resulted in a successful funding bid to the Department for Education. From the outset, Studio DERA’s work was shaped by ongoing consultations with educators, curriculum leaders, facilities managers and students. The architects ran a series of workshops and engagement sessions to test spatial strategies, technical requirements and user priorities. This informed key elements of the final design, including the subdivision of the Pool into zones, the use of biophilic and acoustic elements, and the inclusion of a stage and IT suite. Balancing architectural ambition with operational need, Studio DERA worked closely with the college to coordinate infrastructure upgrades and ensure longterm adaptability and maintainability with the installation of a new renewable energy system. The project was completed in 48 weeks but fine-tuning continuesd postcompletion, based on real-time user feedback from students and staff. The result is a versatile, welcoming and light-filled space of 994sqm. The Pool has five learning zones, each tailored to support a range of teaching styles and group sizes. A raised stage positioned at the former pool’s deep end creates a focal point for lectures, performances and assemblies. Beneath it, a new IT room cleverly uses the original pool depth to deliver highperformance digital learning infrastructure. The original high-level windows were cut down to external floor level, dramatically increasing the natural light. Studio DERA installed integrated window seating along the old pool concourse, and fixed desks around the perimeter of the former pool tank for study and small group work. To increase thermal performance to meet DfE standards, triple-glazed windows were installed, along with insulation of both external and internal walls, and new insulated pipework. Operational energy use is expected to fall significantly thanks to air source heat pumps, mixed-mode ventilation and LED lighting. Material choices were guided by principles of low embodied carbon, durability and circularity, and include FSC-certified timber, recycled acoustic panels, and low-VOC finishes. Max Dewdney, Studio DERA, commented: “We wanted the Pool to be an inspiring and practical space that elevates student learning and staff functionality, and, above all, brings joy. We were really keen to show just what is architecturally possible in the education sector, which is so often sadly underfunded and under-prioritized. Janet Gardner at Waltham Forest College was a visionary leader for this project, and together with our great contractors we’ve delivered an ambitious, design-led and sustainable hub which puts the user experience front and centre. Janet Gardner, Principal & CEO at Waltham Forest College, added: “We are all so thrilled with this project and the transformation of an empty pool into a beautiful and flexible teaching and learning space; this has had a profound impact on our students and staff. Studio DERA was a joy to work with and their tireless efforts and energy along with their innovative design has exceeded our expectations. The college has a brandnew space that will grow and adapt with us well into the future.” www.studiodera.com The former swimming pool ©Studio DERA The Pool by Studio DERA ©Lorenzo Zandri highereducationestates 13 retrofitting
NOTTINGHAM Trent University’s (NTU) new Design and Digital Arts building has been up and running for just over a year now. The design delivery work was led by CPMG Architects from its headquarters just streets away from the landmark development. Following its appointment in December 2021, the CPMG team worked alongside Bowmer + Kirkland to deliver the scheme, from a concept design by Hawkins\Brown. Having been brought in to deliver the scheme, CPMG collaborated closely with NTU and project partners to complete the design and make any necessary adaptations. This included redesigning the interior spaces, with fit-out taking place over the summer months, to support effective design and arts learning, while ensuring the university's focus on digital arts was consistently amplified throughout. The Design and Digital Arts building supports NTU with the development of new courses offered by the Nottingham School of Art & Design – creating a hub for film, television, animation, UX design, games design, graphic design and more. Alex Walker, project lead and associate at CPMG, said: “The Design and Digital Arts building builds on our reputation for delivering high-quality design projects with our contractor partners. Collaborating with a local design team to deliver an important project in our home city has been a richly rewarding experience – especially as it creates a hub of creativity for the digital leaders of the future to develop their skills. “Following the completion of the project, it’s excellent to see the building open and offering a new collection of courses for Nottingham Trent University’s students, adding significant value to the creative industries in Nottingham. We hope the building will support NTU’s vision for developing the digital arts and help graduates prepare for success in professional, technical and commercial careers.” The 12-storey building provides students with cutting-edge technology and equipment, including editing suites, a performance capture studio and virtual production facilities, with creative spaces for interdisciplinary collaboration, social learning and exhibition. Bowmer + Kirkland regional construction director, Christian Parnell, said: “We are delighted to have continued our long relationship with Nottingham Trent University and CPMG with the construction of the Design and Digital Arts Building. It was also satisfying to work with many other Midlands-based companies to deliver this stunning space in the heart of Nottingham.” Michael Marsden, executive dean of the Nottingham School of Art & Design at Nottingham Trent University, said: “This new building pushes the boundaries, not only through the architecture and technologies used to create it, but through the courses on offer, the opportunity for collaboration, and the graduates it will produce. “It will enable NTU to become a global leader in digital arts and filmmaking education, creating a rich talent pool of young creatives who will graduate with sector-leading expertise and hands-on industry experience, and help position us, and the city as a whole, as the most innovative hotbed for digital art and design talent in the UK.” The project team also included MEP contractor Derry Building Services, structural and fire engineer ARUP, façade contractor KeyClad, cladding supplier Taylor Maxwell, planning consultant P&DG, landscape engineer Influence, acoustic engineer Environoise, BREEAM assessor Encon Associates, glazing contractor Vitrine and concrete frame contractor Northfield Construction. www.cpmg-architects.com www.derry-bs.com www.arup.com www.bandk.co.uk/group-companies/keyclad www.taylormaxwell.co.uk www.northfield-construction.co.uk www.panddg.co.uk www.influence.co.uk www.environoise.co.uk www.enconassociates.com www.vitrineglazing.com Nottingham Trent strengthens digital arts offer with new centre 14 highereducationestates project
res s Your job is to find value. Ours is to deliver it — through adaptable, reliable fitness solutions that prioritise health, happiness and long-term results for your campus. All rights reserved. Star Trac, the Star Trac logo and StairMaster are registered trademarks of Core Health & Fitness, LLC. Schwinn and Nautilus are registered trademarks used under license to Core Health & Fitness LLC. Throwdown is a registered trademark of Throwdown Industries, LLC. REQUEST A QUOTE To see how we can adapt to suit your needs, contact our sales team at UKSales@corehandf.com Your job is to find value. Ours is to deliver it — through adaptable, reliable fitness solutions that prioritise health, happiness and long-term results for your campus. All rights reserved. Star Trac, the Star Trac logo and StairMaster are registered trademarks of Core Health & Fitness, LLC. Schwinn and Nautilus are registered trademarks used under license to Core Health & Fitness LLC. Throwdown is a registered trademark of Throwdown Industries, LLC. REQUEST A QUOTE To see how we can adapt to suit your needs, contact our sales team at UKSales@corehandf.com
CITY Campus is a vibrant new hub in the heart of Gloucester. The former Debenhams site has been transformed into a state-of-the art centre for teaching, learning and community services. Howells Patent Glazing was tasked with supplying five bespoke rooflights and two areas of mono pitch glazing for this iconic building. University of Gloucestershire purchased the site in 2021 and has subsequently been working with main contractor, Morgan Sindall and project architect, ADP Architecture to create a home for the University’s Education, Psychology and Social Work programmes and shared public access facilities. The site includes a Victorian wing and sections dating back to the 1930s and 1950s, meaning the transformation has been complex – combining heritage preservation and progressive development. For Howells, City Campus is the largest and one of the most challenging projects in the company’s 50+ years history. Business development manager Tracey Jackson explained: “This was an incredibly complex yet rewarding project. The biggest challenge was the size and weight of the glass combined with the building’s city centre location which created access, material handling and storage issues.” “The existing building had a floor plate that was too deep for an educational environment, making it difficult to bring daylight into the centre,” said Natalia Lopez, Associate Director, ADP Architecture. “With only a few existing rooflights located above the third floor, natural light was unable to reach the lower levels effectively. To address this, new rooflights and openings were introduced across all floor plates, enabling daylight to penetrate the central social learning spaces and classrooms, and even extend down into the basement.” Howells advised ADP Architecture and Morgan Sindall on the most appropriate rooflighting solution. Following a site survey, Howells confirmed design and installation of two hip-ended rooflights, two self-supporting octagon rooflights, two areas of mono pitch glazing and one tapered ridge rooflight. Due to their size, Howells appointed a structural engineer to complete structural calculations for each rooflight to ensure the aluminium bars could withstand the weight of the glass plus any imposed loadings, such as wind and snow. The fabrication team strengthened the glazing bars based on these calculations adding steel inserts. This also increased their span capabilities. The two self-supporting octagonal rooflights replaced one smaller rooflight which had sat above the former Debenhams central atrium and two new areas of mono pitch glazing were added. Each bespoke aluminium rooflight is powder coated in Black Grey RAL 7021 in a matt finish, both inside and out. Daylighting was a crucial element in the building design. ADP Architecture recognised that a sufficient provision of rooflights would be essential to achieve the wide-ranging benefits of daylighting. Particular consideration was given to the layout, enlarging existing openings and adding more. “Daylight is fundamental to the success of the building, shaping not only its environmental performance but also the quality of its internal spaces,” said Natalia Lopez, Associate Director, ADP Architecture. “By bringing natural light deep into the floor plate, the design creates vibrant and uplifting environments that encourage interaction, collaboration, and a sense of community.” University of Gloucestershire opened City Campus to the public on 18 August 2025 ahead of the new term. Dame Clare Marchant, DBE, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said: “City Campus is a gamechanger for Gloucester and the wider Gloucestershire community. As well as providing our students with a fantastic, future-proofed learning experience, City Campus will bring substantial long-term social, educational and economic benefits to the region.” www.howellsglazing.co.uk www.morgansindall.com www.adp-architecture.com Gloucester University selects bespoke rooflights for new campus 16 highereducationestates glazing
Transforming heritage into an innovative and inclusive environment ASTON University's transformation of Birmingham’s historic Victorian Citadel building into the new John Cadbury House has been hailed as a testament to sustainability and innovation. Supported by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the heritage site has been renovated into a modern, sustainable hub for education, business and innovation. Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and Chair of the WMCA, commented: “It exemplifies our commitment to sustainable development - where we think not just in terms of bricks and mortar but in terms of establishing beacons of hope and opportunity right across our region.” The refurbishment was driven by a vision to create a dynamic and inclusive environment aligned with Aston University's strategic emphasis on fostering collaboration across education, science and enterprise. Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said: “Our 2030 strategy defines Aston University as an inclusive, entrepreneurial and transformational university. Building on our proud past as UK’s first college of technology, it is taking its rightful place in this Fourth Industrial Revolution.” Spanning over 46,000 square feet, the building now accommodates office, retail, and social spaces. It operates with a net zero carbon footprint, showcasing Aston University's commitment to sustainable development. The interior design choices by Robothams Architects, within John Cadbury House reflect an acute awareness of inclusivity and sustainability. Flooring played a crucial role, with over 2,600 sqm of Shaw Contract products installed by The Commercial Flooring Company. Selections from the Simply by Nature carpet tile collection in styles Arrange in Mountain View and Array in Sterling Silver were coupled with Nordic LVT in refined Elm wood tone to create visually engaging, tactile environments. These surfaces not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also aid in navigation and spatial orientation without explicit signage, supporting intuitive wayfinding for all users. The Simply By Nature collection introduces organic patterns and textures, bringing a sense of tranquillity and natural beauty to the workplace. This approach to interior design is emblematic of Aston University's philosophy: to merge functionality with environmental consciousness. Shaw Contract is committed to Material Health and the well-being of the spaces where we work, learn and collaborate. The chosen collections are low in VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and certified Indoor Air Comfort Gold®, meeting the most stringent Indoor Air Quality certifications. The Simply By Nature collection is also Cradle-to-Cradle® certified and carbon neutral, underscoring a profound dedication to sustainability. John Cadbury House stands as a testament to Aston University's forwardthinking approach, integrating education, business and sustainability. This project not only revitalises a historic building but also redefines it as a modern centre for innovation and collaboration, all while maintaining a stringent commitment to environmental stewardship and community wellbeing. www.shawcontract.com/enGB/Segments/Education www.robothams.co.uk highereducationestates 17 flooring
John Calder, technical director at Dura Pump, urges facilities teams to act now, with proactive maintenance tips to safeguard critical systems ACROSS the UK, hundreds of colleges and universities could face emergency call-outs or even closure if their pump systems aren’t checked before winter. The UK is set to face more extreme weather before the end of the year, with plummeting temperatures, storms and heavy rainfall - conditions that can cause pumps to freeze, blockages to form and energy efficiency to drop. For colleges and universities, the risk of pump failures is heightened as many systems will have been sitting idle over summer, increasing the likelihood of sudden failure under the pressure of winter demand and freezing temperatures. Every winter we see situations where a small fault has spiralled into a full system breakdown because it wasn’t checked in time. Thinking ahead of time and proactively checking key infrastructure now can significantly minimise downtime and prevent any interruptions this winter. Pumps are central to the operation of heating and stormwater systems, but they can seize or fail to start after periods of inactivity, while hard water deposits can build up, cause brittle seals and costly leaks once the system is under pressure. Start with a visual inspection, looking for signs of weeping or leaks around seals, flanges and gaskets. Manually switch the system on and listen for unusual noises. Check for vibration and dry bearings. Even a minor leak or faulty sensor can escalate into full pump failure once demand spikes. Make sure your checks include monitoring the system’s pressure, testing thermostats and building management controls, and verifying antifreeze levels in external pipework. Routine preventative maintenance for a site's pump system might cost facilities teams in the region of £2,500 to £10,000 annually, depending on scale, whereas a single mid-winter pump failure could mean emergency call-out fees, replacement equipment, including labour bills coming to £15,000 to £30,000. Not to mention the additional cost of disruption. Wastewater and stormwater systems run constantly throughout the year, but winter weather (heavy rainfall, snow and freezing temperatures) adds extra strain and increases the risk of operational failure. Fats, oils and debris that build up over summer can cause float switches to stick and pumps to block. Facilities teams should test the level control, run each pump manually and check that alternation between duty and standby pumps is working correctly to prevent system breakdowns. Additional steps such as checking valves, alarms and control panel heaters, alongside insulating any exposed pipework to prevent freezing, make a huge difference in ensuring reliability during peak demand. Pump damage or failure can be catastrophic in education settings, forcing schools, colleges and universities to face disruptive downtime or possible closures. Earlier this year, several schools in Boston had to shut down due to a pump failure that reduced water pressure and created hygiene risks - showing how essential reliable water systems are to day-to-day educational operations. For universities, the financial impact can be even greater. A maintenance programme costing around £5,000 a year may prevent failures that could otherwise spiral into tens of thousands of pounds in emergency repairs and temporary solutions if sites have to close unexpectedly. Organisations cannot afford to wait and see if their heating and water systems are able to survive winter – emergency callouts are expensive, downtime is disruptive, and the safety risks are high. Taking action could save upwards of £50,000 in emergency repairs and downtime if a major failure hits in the middle of winter, but proactive maintenance isn’t just about avoiding repair costs - it’s about ensuring continuity, protecting people and reducing energy waste. By investing just a few hours in proactive checks and maintenance, facilities teams can safeguard operations and ensure systems are ready to perform when they’re needed most. www.durapump.co.uk Avoiding expensive pump failures this winter 18 highereducationestates maintenance
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Bruce Robins, director at fire safety supplier CheckFire, explores how colleges and universities can strengthen compliance and improve fire safety THE latest government fire prevention and protection statistics (year ending March 2025) found that 74% of fire safety audits conducted by fire and rescue services in further education premises in England were “satisfactory”. This means over a quarter of fire safety audits were “unsatisfactory” and found breaches of fire safety legislation. Further education institutions are responsible for the safety of large numbers of staff, students, and guests. It is essential they have up-to-date fire risk assessments and that all fire safety equipment is appropriately maintained, within service, and fit for purpose in the event of a fire. Compliance with legislation is nonnegotiable. Yet, fire and rescue services revealed the three most common breaches of fire safety across all audits were emergency routes and exits, maintenance and risk assessment. By focusing on these three common breaches, further education institutions can improve fire safety. It is the legal duty of the “responsible person” to “reduce the risk of fire and ensure people can safely escape the building in the event of a fire”. The responsible person for fire safety is defined by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) as the person or entity in control of the premises, such as the headteacher, governing body, or building owner. The responsible person must oversee regular risk assessments. They, or a competent person they’ve instructed, will: • Identify fire hazards • Identify people at risk • Evaluate, remove, and reduce risk • Record findings • Create a fire prevention plan • Inform staff and students of what to do in the event of a fire • Review the risk of fire regularly. Signage is essential in an emergency situation but the most common breach of the RRFSO was found to be Article 14, relating to emergency routes and exits. Article 14 highlights that emergency routes and exits must be indicated by appropriate signage. In an emergency, fire safety signage is critical to clearly display procedures, actions, and directions in the event of a fire. Adequate fire safety training must be given to staff. Furthermore, given the vast number of students in the setting – as well as visitors unfamiliar with the site – fire safety signage is a vital component of any fire evacuation plan. Photoluminescent signs assist with escape detection and fire safety equipment usage in further education institutions. Other signs act as a preventative measure and remind people to adhere to fire safety procedures, such as keeping fire doors shut. Maintaining fire safety equipment is equally essential. The RRFSO states in Article 17 that the responsible person must ensure fire safety facilities, equipment, and devices are maintained in good working order. However, this was found to have been breached 8,666 times in the year ending March 2025. The importance of maintenance cannot be overstated, with faulty equipment presenting fire safety risks – and legal non-compliance. To maintain equipment properly, it is imperative the responsible person ensures weekly visual inspections of fire extinguishers, weekly testing of fire alarm systems, and weekly checks of all escape routes. It is also their responsibility to ensure an annual fire alarm inspection by an engineer and an annual fire extinguisher service, which must be conducted by a trained technician. Failing to comply with fire safety legislation will increase risks to the safety of staff, students, and visitors. For further education organisations, regular adherence to safety is essential. www.checkfire.co.uk How can FE institutions improve fire safety? 20 highereducationestates fire safety
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