Salford University confirms MediaCity move

THE University of Salford has fulfilled its commitment to move a key faculty to MediaCity:uk.

The university promised in 2006 that it would take space at the new development, and has now made good on that promise and signed a deal with developer Peel Media to join the BBC at the landmark development.

The new University hub will comprise 100,000 sq ft over four floors and include a broadcast zone, digital media zone, virtual laboratory, digital performance space and creative spaces for use in academic teaching, project-based learning and user-centred design and innovation.

Digital media specialist John Holland, a former head of interactive TV and digital text services at the BBC, has already been appointed by the University to lead its new initiatives relating to MediaCity.

The new facilty should be ready to welcome students in 2011.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Harloe said: “There is a New Media revolution happening across the globe, and the University is pioneering a nationally significant development here in Salford. 

“Our MediaCityUK hub will be dedicated to providing world-class learning and research for the 21st century – offering flexible and responsive programmes and producing highly practical industry-relevant research and innovation.  

BBC director general Mark Thompson welcomed the move: “I am delighted Salford University have announced they are joining us at MediaCityUK with their new centre alongside the BBC.

“The University’s presence alongside key parts of the BBC means MediaCityUK will be one of the places where the future of the media industry will be shaped.”

The BBC is the first anchor tenant at MediaCity, where from 2011 it will relocate a number of departments, including Radio 5Live.