Next stage of UCLan masterplan submitted for approval

The next stage of the University of Central Lancashire’s multi-million-pound masterplan is underway as planning permission for its flagship Student Centre and Civic Square has been formally submitted.

Intended to be the focal point of the overall development, it has been designed by Hawkins Brown following an international RIBA competition, and has targeted a BREEAM (environmental quality) rating of ‘excellent’.

A 7,300 sq m centre will include a new reception area, informal learning spaces and a student well-being support centre.

Meanhile, the 5,220 sq m civic square will become an iconic gateway for the city.

David Taylor, chairman of the board at UCLan, said the goal of the development is to provide a landmark building and space where learners of all backgrounds can feel at ease in their physical surroundings.

He said: "The new centre will be a welcoming, functional, focal point for all front line student, visitor and staff enquiries. It will also be an important public asset that embraces the city scale and positively contributes to the ongoing regeneration of Preston.” UCLan hopes a decision on the application will be made by Preston City Council later this year or early 2018.