Lancaster University Management School embarks on next phase of major refurb
The latest phase of the ambitious transformation of Lancaster University Management School (LUMS) is under way, with Conlon Construction leading the redevelopment of the East Estate at the globally-recognised institution.
The project aims to transform the nearly 50-year-old building, aligning it with the modern standards set by the recently completed LUMS West Pavilion, all while delivering cutting edge facilities designed to meet the evolving needs of business education, research, and engagement.
Spanning 6,778 sq m across three floors, the LUMS East Estate redevelopment broke ground this month and will be complete in 2026.
As one of Lancaster University’s four faculties, LUMS will benefit from modernised meeting and teaching spaces, expanded breakout and informal study areas, and improved accessibility, including a new link corridor connecting the Spine to the West Pavilion.
The facility will also house a state-of-the-art Bloomberg Suite for financial analytics teaching, new careers zones, an expanded PC lab that can also be used for electronic examinations, and a contemporary café.
The LUMS project is part of a wider transformation of the faculty estate, positioning it as a world class hub for teaching and research, on a par with other prestigious business schools globally, and is focused on delivering high levels of student satisfaction.
Work officially starts at LUMS
By opting for refurbishment over new construction, the redevelopment aligns with the university’s sustainability goals, resulting in an estimated 3,013 tonnes of CO2 equivalent saved during the project lifespan.
Darren Lee, commercial director at Conlon Construction, said: “It’s wonderful to commence work on the East Estate at LUMS – a truly tremendous project – and we consider it an absolute pleasure to work in partnership, once again, with a fantastic supply chain to deliver this winning addition to Lancaster University’s growing collection of cutting edge learning facilities.”
Bamber Bridge-based Conlon Construction has previously delivered several significant projects for the university, including the new sports hall extension in 2020.
Collaborating with Conlon Construction on this project are several key consultants, including Cassidy + Ashton, Hoare Lea, Identity Consult, Sleater and Watson, and SDA Consulting.
Deputy Dean of Lancaster University Management School, Prof James Faulconbridge, said: “As one of oldest business schools in the UK, the design will be sympathetic to our heritage but will bring the 1970s aspects of our buildings into line with the first class, modern facilities provided by our new West Pavilion.
“This will mean our staff and students will have access to the same high standards and exciting spaces in all corners of our Management School.”
