Construction BUSINESS

London Metropolitan University has announced ambitious plans for a comprehensive £284 million development initiative across its campuses in Holloway, Aldgate, and Shoreditch. The university seeks to appoint a single contractor to oversee this expansive project, which includes constructing new facilities, offering maintenance support, and aligning with sustainability and social responsibility objectives, notably aiming for carbon net-zero status by 2030. The initiative, initiated in 2022 and slated to continue until 2032, emphasizes significant investments to upgrade infrastructure and facilities.

A central aspect of this endeavour is the substantial decarbonization of existing buildings, alongside efforts to enhance operational efficiency and minimize associated risks. The university intends to forge a long-term alliance with a tier-one contractor and facilities-management partner to drive these initiatives forward. Notably, a detailed ‘masterplan’ for the Holloway Road campus is in the works, integrating new student accommodations and advanced teaching facilities, reflecting the university’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure.

London Metropolitan University’s strategy includes elevating the condition of its buildings, targeting 90% to achieve a category B status by 2032. Presently, more than half of the buildings at Holloway Road and over 60% at Aldgate fall below this benchmark. In light of these goals, the university invites interested contractors to engage in various aspects of the project, emphasizing current supply dynamics, market trends, and the feasibility of its vision. This initiative reflects broader trends within the academic sector, with universities like the University of Greenwich also undertaking significant redevelopment schemes to fortify their infrastructure and align with sustainability imperatives in the evolving educational landscape.

Source: Construction News