A new teaching and learning centre, known as the Church Lane Building, has been unveiled at the University of York, following a transformation by ENGIE
Students returning in September will benefit from six new teaching rooms, 80 office spaces and multiple breakout areas, as well as a brand new café.
Sustainability has been central to the project, with the use of ‘green walls’ covered in reindeer moss to improve environmental wellbeing and air quality, while at the same time absorbing acoustic energy to suppress noise.
Other energy-efficient features include LED lighting to showcase the modern interior and keep lighting costs to a minimum.
Sustainable transport options are encouraged with the provision of electric vehicle charging points, while those cycling to campus can leave their bikes in one of many green-roofed cycle shelters aimed at boosting biodiversity by doubling up as a habitat for insects and bees.
Transforming places and supporting partners
Sean Corcoran, regional director at ENGIE, said: “These new state-of-the-art facilities reflect York University’s reputation as one of the best in the country, and will really enhance the students’ learning experience when they return in September.
“This project has been a great opportunity for us to combine our expertise in transforming places and supporting our partners on their zero-carbon journey, and we’re really proud of the space we’ve created.
“It’s certainly got the ‘wow’ factor, and we hope the students enjoy using it as much as we’ve enjoyed creating it.”
Kevin Whelan, director of estates operations at the University of York, added: “The University is continually renewing its estate for the benefit of students, staff and partners.
“The new Church Lane Building is a fantastic addition in an ideal location between our east and west campuses offering students and staff the perfect place to learn, teach, work and socialise.”
