Salford Uni seeks contractor for £38m arts building
THE University of Salford is looking for contractors to design and build its new £38m, seven-storey arts building, which is part of a wider redevelopment of its campus.
The university has issued a tender for the 16,000 sq m (172,000 sq ft building, which will include space for the university’s music, performance and art & design schools. The building will house recording studios, a theatre space, performance rooms, and both general and specialist teaching space.
The two-year contract will also involve demolition of existing buildings, landscaping and the creation of a smaller, standalone art and design studion of around 550 sqm (6,000 sq ft). Bids need to be submitted by November 10.
Meanwhile, the university has just awarded a £4.6m contract to refurbish and extend the 1970s Chapman Building at to Wates Construction.
Wates will upgrade the building to provide a lecture theatre, a cafe breakout space, first floor learning areas and the building’s exterior. It is due to start on site next month.
The University’s deputy vice-chancellor, Dr Adrian Graves, said: “The appointment of Wates Construction marks the beginning of a very exciting period of development for the University. We look forward to working with them as we invest in Salford’s future.”
John Shannon, business unit director for Wates Construction in the North West, said: “It is a pleasure to be working on the major refurbishment of the Chapman Building.
“This will substantially enhance the University’s estate and facilities and we’re proud to be involved in a project that will help improve the services offered to students in the city.”
