Arts University Bournemouth’s new Student Halls development aims to create a ‘home from home' feel for students through a renewed focus on placemaking – encouraging a safe, welcoming and friendly atmosphere for residents and visitors.
With a campus centred around architectural buildings designed by alumnus and renowned architect Professor Sir Peter Cook, the university’s new student Halls, designed by Winchester-based Architects Design Engine, provide a Reception area for visitors as they enter the university.
AUB Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Gough officially opened the building at a dedicated Launch Event, alongside members of the Morgan Sindall build team, the university's Students' Union, AUBSU, Talbot Village Residents' Association, and the Worshipful Mayors of Bournemouth and Poole.
The project has been delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF); a collaborative vehicle for public sector procurement operated by Devon and Hampshire County Councils.
Sustainability has been at the core of the project, with solar panels mounted on the roof of the tiered three-storey development helping the project achieve its BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating. The structures also encompass secure cycle storage areas to encourage sustainable travel, in line with the university’s Sustainable Transport and Travel Plan.
Additionally, circular economy principles have resulted in 94% of waste diverted from landfill, with nearly 90% of construction work routed through 45 small to medium sized enterprises in the local area to encourage and demonstrate the effectiveness of local suppliers and contractors.
Pedestrian and cycle routes connecting nearby areas have also been created or upgraded with improved lighting, linking Wallisdown Road and Gillett Road to Fern Barrow, and the nearby bus hub.
Tom Marshall, Head of Campus Services at AUB, said: “This project represents the university’s ongoing commitment to provide students with well-suited student accommodation that helps foster a friendly, caring environment for students.
“The decision to bring students back to our campus is reflective of our maker culture; immersing those studying at AUB within this nurturing environment, and while encouraging easier access to the campus and the full range of specialist equipment located here."
He added: “We are very pleased with the project, from its inception to handover, and the Halls perfectly complement our existing Campus buildings in scale, function and sustainability.”
Clifford Kinch, Area Director at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “We’ve worked in partnership with AUB on its campus development for the last decade, delivering several inspiring buildings. This latest scheme is particularly striking and befitting the creativity and ingenuity of students who will live in it.
“We always welcome the chance to work with progressive customers who prioritise both sustainability, and wider placemaking elements which can so often be overlooked. AUB's decision to provide modern, on-campus accommodation, which is well-connected via green transport options to local amenities, speaks to a real understanding of what students want.
“Logistically challenging projects on campuses are something we’re well versed in delivering. But keeping this project on track through COVID-19, while working in line with government guidance, required real collaboration from the estates team, our people, all of our project partners, and our supply chain. It’s great to mark the official opening, now it's appropriate to do so, and everyone involved should be proud of a job well done.”
