University awards contract for new business school build

The International support services and construction group were chosen after a tender process was run for the construction of the new building.

The £18m project is designed by architects Sheppard Robson, project managed by Gardiner & Theobald, with engineering services provided by Arup.

The six-storey facility in Molineux Street will provide teaching and social learning space for The University of Wolverhampton Business School with the aim of adding to its growing reputation and engagement with the business community in the region.

Included in the proposed new building will be an executive education suite, innovative teaching and learning spaces, an IT suite, consulting rooms and a central social space and café.

Work is due to get underway on site in early June. Dr Anthea Gregory, Head of the business school and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, said: “After many months of planning it is wonderful news that work on the new building is imminent.

“It has been a competitive process and we were very impressed with the bid that Interserve put together and are looking forward to working with them on this project.

“This will cement the Business School’s reputation in the region and nationally, not just with students but with the business community.

“It is also great news for Wolverhampton and shows confidence in the local economy and the City.”

Interserve’s Regional Director, Simon Butler, said: “We are delighted to have secured another significant project within the higher education sector, an area where we already have a formidable track record.

“We are looking forward to re-establishing our relationship with the University of Wolverhampton where we were previously involved on the School of Health and Wellbeing project. The new Business School demonstrates the university’s commitment in providing the best facilities for students and the private sector.”

The new building is due to open in 2015.

ENDS

For more information please contact James Allen in the Media Relations Office on
01902 322003

Date Issued: Tuesday 27 May 2014