University seeks contractor for £25m centre

THE University of Manchester is looking for a contractor for its £25m Learning Commons project – an extended study area next to its library on Oxford Road.

Work has already started on the demolition of the existing building, an old refectory next to the student union, which should be finished by April.

The old building’s concrete frame will be used to support the new 62,000 sq ft centre that will offer study areas for 1,000 students.

The value of the construction contract is £12.5m but a spokesman for the university said the total cost of the building will reach £25m. It is due to open in September 2012.

When work on the site began in August Professor Colin Stirling, vice-president for teaching and learning said: “The Learning Commons will be a beacon for student learning and demonstrates the university’s genuine commitment to students and the provision of high quality learning spaces fit for contemporary learning practices.”

The deadline for tenders is April 26.