Manchester Metropolitan University has submitted plans to build a new science and engineering building in place of the John Dalton West building
Plans for the new state-of-the-art science and engineering building at MMU have been submitted to Manchester City Council.
The project would see the existing John Dalton West building demolished and a new, seven-storey academic building constructed in its place.
The development would provide for the Faculty of Science and Engineering new teaching spaces, cutting-edge laboratories, academic offices, social learning areas and a new energy centre, as well as extensive public realm works.
The current John Dalton Tower will be refurbished and connected to the new development.
New pedestrian routes across the site will be provided within new landscaping, which will create an accessible external environment, particularly to the Chester Street frontage.
Drive new scientific discovery
Professor Andrew Gibson, pro-vice-chancellor of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Manchester Metropolitan, said: “The new building represents our ambition as a faculty and will help us to drive new scientific discovery that will benefit our students, the region and the economy.
“The development will help the University to continue its role in nurturing innovation in critical research to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, including hydrogen fuel cell technology, Industry 4.0 technologies, sport and healthcare science, and supporting a sustainable society.”
National planning and development consultancy Turley is providing planning.
Science and engineering building to facilitate growth
Anna Relph, associate director at Turley, commented: “This is a fantastic project which we’re delighted to be part of. The University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering makes a significant contribution towards the Greater Manchester economy through its ground-breaking research and partnerships with local businesses.
“The new building will facilitate the continued growth of the faculty by providing additional state-of-the-art facilities and enhancing the efficiency of the retained estate. It will also create a new ‘gateway’ to the campus through the redevelopment of an underutilised site adjacent to the Mancunian Way.”
Multi-phase project
The multi-phase project would take place on the land between the Mancunian Way, Chester Street, Oxford Road and Cambridge Street.
Subject to planning approval, demolition works are expected to commence at the end of 2020, and the works completed in 2023.
The science and engineering building is part of the University’s ambitious Estates Masterplan Investment Programme which is investing £378.8m to transform its campus over the coming years.
Managed by the university’s capital development team, the masterplan includes new buildings for Arts and Humanities, the School of Digital Arts and Birley Residences Phase 2, as well as refurbishments for the Ormond building and the Manchester Metropolitan Institute of Sport.
A decision on the planning application is expected by 20 March this year.
