The University of Salford has unveiled exciting proposals to revive its campus for the benefit of local people, students and staff - including attractive public spaces, a new arts building, and self-contained student residences overlooking Peel Park.

Construction of the first phase of the University's Campus Plan - its 20 year vision for the future - is scheduled to begin later this year, starting with the total refurbishment and extension of the existing Chapman Building, and a hi-tech new arts building - offering a theatre, exhibition space, drama studios and music rooms.

From 2012, work is scheduled to begin on a series of open public spaces at Chapman Square and Station Square near to Salford Crescent Station - including outdoor lecture theatres, performance areas and quieter external meeting places where staff, students and members of the public can come together in an informal setting.


Ambitious plans are also underway to develop self-contained student residences in the heart of the campus, overlooking Peel Park and the David Lewis Playing Fields. With 24-hour on-site security, and longer opening hours for retail, restaurant and café outlets, it is hoped that the residences will breathe new life into Peel Park, and evolve into a well-managed part of the wider community.

The University's Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr Adrian Graves, said: "Our Campus Plan is an incredibly exciting development in the life of the University. Our plans will forever transform the campus and give our students access to outstanding facilities and an experience of unparalleled quality. Our staff will also benefit from state-of-the-art teaching and research, and a collaborative environment."

A series of briefings are currently underway to inform local residents of the University's plans and how they will benefit the community.

(CD/KMcA)