University commits £1 million to purpose-built centre as part of Masterplan
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has announced plans to build a £1 million purpose-built centre for faith and spirituality as part of its Campus Masterplan development.
The brand new ‘Oasis: Faith and Spirituality Centre’ will be built on the site of the existing Moss Building on Kirkham Street. It will be completed by autumn 2017 in line with the two new social spaces that are also being built on campus as part of the Masterplan.
Michael Ahern, UCLan Chief Operating Officer, said: “The University had expected to provide a like for like replacement for the existing facility. However, we have been inspired by the vision of the Students’ Union (SU) and the Faith Team for how a very ambitious facility will make a positive difference to all of our communities. We are very excited to be making this substantial investment to ensure all students and staff have the perfect environment for prayer, contemplation and reflection.”
"We are very excited to be making this substantial investment to ensure all students and staff have the perfect environment for prayer, contemplation and reflection."
Consultation with students has been a key part of informing the design of the new building. The current designs are an amalgamation of feedback from students, gathered over recent years, on what they want from the facility. Sana Iqbal, SU President, has been working closely with the University to achieve the best possible outcome for students.
She said: “I am so pleased with the new designs which include designated places for prayer, quiet space and even a roof garden. I am confident that students will love it. This is a proud moment for the Students’ Union to show the power of the student voice. I look forward to continuing to work closely with the University in ensuring the building meets the needs of students.”
The next steps of the project will include a consultation on the look of the building, including a session with interior design students to comment on the design. Anyone interested in taking part in the student consultations can do so by contacting Sana via email at supresident@uclan.ac.uk
