The University of Warwick has revealed plans for a £700m campus expansion as a part of their Connect Programme
The expansion will be the largest single investment in campus facilities since the University of Warwick’s inception.
The investment will focus on STEM and social science facilities, and provide further interdisciplinary education and research opportunities for academics and students.
The STEM Connect Programme is stage one of the development
The first stage of the development will see the creation of innovative spaces for both research and education programmes, including laboratories and teaching rooms.
An old carpark at the main campus is set to be converted to these new spaces, becoming a new 25,000m2 science and engineering building.
Professor Stuart Croft, vice-chancellor and president of The University of Warwick, said: “The Connect Programme demonstrates how we are fostering curiosity and creativity and creating a lasting impact for years to come. We will equip our students, researchers and partners to tackle the urgent global challenges of today and tomorrow.
“As we enter the first phase of the STEM Connect programme, The University of Warwick is leading the way in advancing STEM education and research, to inspire the next generation of innovators. 2025 marks 60 years of The University of Warwick and this investment reaffirms our commitment to making a better world together through our research, education and innovation. We are looking forward to further announcements about our Social Sciences Connect Programme later this year.”
Preparation and construction works are set to start over the next 12 months
Professor Mark Williams, academic director for the STEM Connect Programme, said: “Through the STEM Connect Programme, we will firmly maintain The University of Warwick’s position as a global powerhouse for STEM, that will pave the way for groundbreaking research and education programmes. The programme will also provide access to state-of-the-art facilities that will deliver both innovation and societal impact.
“We will be creating an environment that will combine excellence with an interdisciplinary culture to create partnerships that will help address the world’s pressing challenges. This is a hugely ambitious project, and I am looking forward to working with our colleagues, students, business partners and wider community to deliver our vision.”
Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Investing in STEM is essential for driving innovation that boosts our economy and creates quality jobs for people across the region. Universities like Warwick that invest heavily in Research and Development and STEM activities are key to achieving this, and their investment will help ensure the West Midlands stays at the forefront of the UK’s innovation and skills-based economy, benefiting both our communities and businesses.”
