News

Friday 20 October 2006

Plans approved for £70 million flagship scheme

Plans to transform two of the city’s best known landmarks have been given the go ahead today as part of an ambitious estate strategy being undertaken by Nottingham Trent University. The £70 million flagship scheme will involve the regeneration of its Newton and Arkwright buildings - creating a vibrant new heart for the University’s City campus as well as securing a sustainable long-term future for the two historic buildings.

The scheme involves significant sympathetic refurbishment of the Grade II* listed buildings to maximise the usable floor space within them. A stunning, glazed roof atrium between the two buildings will stand where the Newton Yard Car Park is currently situated. This central court, which will comprise a walk-round balcony, will act as a meeting point for staff and students for the City campus as a whole. It will become the front door to the development, creating a new access from Goldsmith Street.

The current Newton basement is being transformed to include state-of-the-art learning and teaching facilities, including lecture theatres and IT resources.

The University’s estates team has worked closely with planning and conservation specialists for nearly two years – including Nottingham City Council, English Heritage, and other conservation groups – to produce a scheme that reflects Newton and Arkwright’s status as city landmarks.  The design team has been led by award winning Hopkins Architects, shortlisted in this year’s prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize for the Evelina Children’s Hospital in London.

Nottingham Trent University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Neil Gorman, said: “This is a significant investment for the University and one which we are obviously very excited about.  The scheme will not only enhance the University’s national and international reputation as a dynamic and forward-thinking institution, but will be a key part of our contribution to the regeneration of this city.”

ENDS

Notes for editors:

The Arkwright and Newton Buildings form the heart of Nottingham Trent University. The Arkwright Building was built for University College Nottingham in 1877-81.  Subsequently, the University moved to another site and the building became part of Nottingham and District Technical College.  As part of the expansion of that college the Newton Building was added in 1956-8.  Both buildings are listed.  The Arkwright Building’s listing was upgraded to Grade II* this year and Newton Building was listed Grade II* in 1998.

For further information please contact Dave Rogers, Press Officer, on telephone +44 (0)115 848 8782 or via email: dave.rogers@ntu.ac.uk.

Or Therese Easom, Press and Media Relations Manager, on telephone +44 (0)115 848 8774 or via email: therese.easom@ntu.ac.uk.