The external facades of the building are now taking shape with new windows installed on all elevations. Many of the windows have been supplied by Crittall Windows – the same company that fitted the original windows for the Bon Marche store in the 1930s that later became Debenhams. The new windows are close replicas of the originals, but double glazed for energy efficiency. Morgan Sindall Construction, which is carrying out the work, has faced significant challenges, not least the need to strip significant amounts of lead paint and to investigate archaeological remains as they are uncovered.

This university aims to start operating from the building next summer, with teaching commencing at the start of the new academic year in September 2024. The School of Health and Social care will be the first occupants of the building, along with Gloucestershire County Council’s new Gloucester Library and the new Health and Wellbeing Centre – a partnership project between the university and One Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board. University of Gloucestershire Vice- Chancellor, Stephen Marston, said: “This has been a challenging project, re- purposing a complex and rather run-down old building to meet the University’s needs. But we can now begin to see what a transformation of the building it will be, with original Art Deco facades restored, a striking glass wall on Kings Square, and inside, a fantastic environment for students and staff. “We are now just a year away from realising the vision of creating an exceptional new teaching campus, bringing new life and vibrancy to the heart of our city, and giving a powerful boost with our partners to the regeneration of the historic centre.”