Construction firm ISG has secured a £50 million project to create a new home for the Faculty of Business and Law at UWE Bristol.

The development is a key element of the University's development masterplan at Frenchay Campus, occupying a site in the central heart zone, adjacent to the currently under construction student union and plaza facilities.

Enabling the relocation and significant expansion of facilities available to students on Business and Law courses at UWE Bristol, the new five-storey, 185,000 sq ft building includes collaborative space to further strengthen relationships between the university and wider business community. Professional organisations will have a base in the new building and judges, accountants, small business owners and start-ups will be able to mix with staff and students in specially designed social learning areas.


The concrete frame structure incorporates large glazed expanses to maximise the volume of natural light entering the building, with a full–height central circulation area providing both access and informal break out space. The building boasts a comprehensive range of state-of-the-art teaching facilities, including a 300-seat tiered double-height lecture theatre and a further two Harvard–style lecture theatres, as well as two simulated court rooms and a high-specification trading room.

The scheme also incorporates a Soft Landings approach from the outset, which sees the entire project team working closely with UWE Bristol to maximise efficiencies and enhance performance during the design, construction, commissioning and final occupation phases, so that predicted performance and expectations are fully met in the completed building.

UWE Bristol is set to use the construction of the Faculty of Business and Law as a direct learning resource, showcasing advanced building methodologies for students on its built environment courses.

(CD)