Coventry University embarks on £4.5m London expansion

Coventry University has appointed Willmott Dixon Interiors for a £4.5m contract to create its new CU London campus.

The university has chosen the Grade II listed Civic Centre in Dagenham as the base for the next stage of its UK expansion.

The project will be Willmott Dixon’s second for Coventry University, following the completion last year of its new-build Scarborough campus.

The appointment also follows up WDI’s recent fit-out of the Grade II listed Design Museum.

The university project will see the company convert the current Civic Centre into a cutting-edge learning environment for students undertaking a range of full and part-time courses.

The university will be using its CU Coventry model to offer lower fees and more flexible learning options in a bid to attract students from a wider catchment area.

The university has worked with Barking and Dagenham Council to develop plans for the new campus, which will open in September.
 
WDI’s work in the education sector includes recently completed projects for Imperial College, University of Brighton, Elstree University Technical College, London Metropolitan University and The London School of Economics.

It is also the latest in a host of projects which has seen Willmott Dixon breathe new life into older public buildings, with the company also involved in refurbishing Alexandra Palace’s East Wing and restoring Darlington Civic Centre.

Mike Hart, Chief Operating Officer of Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “We are really pleased to be working with Coventry University to create a modern and inspiring learning space in London.  Coventry University’s model is a very imaginative one which enables more people to have access to higher education.”

John Dishman, chief executive officer and director of CU Coventry, added: “We are very happy to be working with Willmott Dixon on our new campus in Dagenham as we look to expand further.

“The Civic Centre is an iconic east London landmark and Willmott Dixon is experienced in transforming listed buildings. We look forward to seeing the campus take shape over the coming months.”