Contractor appointed for £8.15 million University social spaces

24 January 2017

Preston-based Conlon Construction appointed by University

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has appointed a contractor for the creation of new £8.15 million social spaces, one of the first projects expected to be completed within the University’s multi-million pound Masterplan.

The project has been awarded to Preston-based Conlon Construction following a detailed period of negotiation and work is now underway.

A single-storey ground floor extension will be added to the University’s existing Foster Building and will include areas for break out activities and informal spaces for social learning,

A similar facility will also be created linking together Harrington and Greenbank buildings and both are being developed with the Students’ Union and as a direct result of student feedback.

The new social spaces will further improve the UCLan experience, encourage people to remain on campus for longer, and see staff and students mixing in a relaxed environment.

Michael Ahern, Chief Operating Officer for UCLan, said: “Increasingly, students expect 24-7 access to flexible, multi-purpose facilities. The new social spaces will accommodate, energise and inspire students and staff in a vibrant and engaging environment – one that people want to be part of."

"We’re pleased to be working with a local firm on this project, supporting jobs and the local economy, which is a key driver of the overall Masterplan."

He continued: “The best learning and research outcomes are achieved when a diverse range of environments are available and this will be a quality space which will blur the traditional boundaries between places to work and socialise.

“We’re pleased to be working with a local firm on this project, supporting jobs and the local economy, which is a key driver of the overall Masterplan.”

Michael Conlon, chairman at Conlon Construction, added: “We are honoured to have been appointed to this project which will kick-start UCLan’s multi-million programme of works.

“As a contractor local to the scheme, we have undertaken a number of projects on campus over the years, including refurbishment of the Foster Building which this development will adjoin, so our familiarity with the University’s built environment, along with our extensive education experience, will ensure we can deliver a quality project on time and within budget.”

The social spaces project is expected to be completed in autumn 2017 and is part of UCLan’s multi-million pound Masterplan to strengthen and enhance the University as it develops, creating a world-class campus compatible with UCLan’s status as one of the UK’s largest universities.

Delivered over the next 10 years, the plan will integrate seamlessly with the rest of the City, benefitting current and future generations of students, staff, visitors and the wider community.