The Belgrave Postgraduate Centre (PGC) project represents Nottingham Trent University's commitment to embedding sustainability within innovative design practices. This refurbishment of the existing Belgrave Centre building, previously occupied by Potter Clarkson, has created a dedicated postgraduate facility on the City Campus. The facility addresses the growing demand for high-quality business and management education, providing distinct facilities and fostering a sense of belonging for all postgraduate students under one roof.
The new facility serves as a high-quality teaching centre, offering community, social, study, and employability spaces for 1,800-2,200 postgraduate taught (PGT) students. It creates a recognisable home and community for PGT students, providing facilities comparable to those of our competitors. Additionally, the project has developed flexible office space for 50-70 Nottingham Business School (NBS) PG-related academic and professional services staff, accommodating growth in staff numbers and releasing space in other city facilities to support planned growth by other schools and functions.
Sustainability in design
The Belgrave PGC project has achieved SKA bronze certification for sustainability, demonstrating our commitment to environmental responsibility. By reusing the existing building structure, we have minimized our environmental impact, reducing the need for new construction materials and preserving the embodied energy of the original building. This approach not only conserves resources but also reduces waste and carbon emissions associated with demolition and new construction.
To further enhance the building's sustainability, the project includes full replenishment of existing soft landscaping to improve biodiversity. This involves planting native species and creating green spaces that support local wildlife, contributing to a healthier ecosystem. The reuse of existing materials where practicable, such as flooring, timber, and furniture, underscores our commitment to resource efficiency. Additionally, we have sourced environmentally friendly materials, ensuring that new additions to the building are sustainable and have a low environmental impact.
Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the Belgrave PGC project. We have implemented energy-efficient lighting systems that reduce electricity consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Efficient taps and water-saving fixtures have been installed to conserve water, reflecting our dedication to sustainable water management practices.
From concept to completion
The Belgrave PGC project began with feasibility studies in late 2022. By February 2023, the business case was approved, and design development commenced, involving various stakeholders to ensure the project met a variety of user and sustainability needs. Construction started in April 2023 and was completed by February 2024.. Throughout the construction phase, continuous and effective stakeholder consultation ensured the project's success, fostering collaboration and transparency.
NTU's Sustainability Team, Nottingham Business School, Digital Technologies, NTU Estates, and NTU Catering, along with the University Executive Team and Board of Governors, ensured the project was future-proof for both our campus and community. External partners, including NCC planners and consultants such as Focus, Pick Everard, and Chord, alongside digital and material providers including Edge, MDA, WSP Safety, Hexa, IFSE, Environoise, and Osbourn Associates, played crucial roles in bringing the project to life.
Impact of the project
The retrofit of the Belgrave Centre was delivered entirely by organisations based in the immediate East Midlands region, including NTU Construction Services, supporting local investment and capabilities. This facility has enabled NTU to grow the number of PGT students, including international students, fostering an environment where they can meet, learn, network, and succeed. This aligns with NTU's Creating Opportunity, Valuing Ideas, Connecting Globally themes and aim of being the most welcoming environment for students from every community.
By having a dedicated PG facility, NTU can further personalise the postgraduate student experience, bringing it in line with undergraduate experiences and exceeding current expectations. The Belgrave PGC project embodies NTU's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence in education, setting a benchmark for future projects and reinforcing our position as a leader in sustainable design.
Find out more
Opened in March 2024, The Postgraduate Centre is the new home for our postgraduate, doctoral and executive education community at Nottingham Business School. Find out more about the facilities within the building and courses available to study.