£21.7m transformation of Stirling student experience

A £21.7 million project which will transform the student experience at the heart of the University of Stirling is underway.

Campus Central will see an extensive refurbishment of the site’s existing Atrium and a three-storey extension, adding more than 50% of extra learning, social and study space.

Professor Gerry McCormac, University Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: “We are proud to see work start on what will be a transformational project for both students and staff.

“The development not only supports our strategic aims in learning, teaching and research but will enable us to significantly enhance the Stirling student experience – a key priority for the University – as well as deliver facilities commensurate with our ambitions to be one of the top 25 universities in the UK.”

The project’s design – which also includes a re-landscaped and fully pedestrianised Queen’s Court, and new student support services facilities – has been developed in partnership with the Students’ Union, staff and local stakeholders.

Stirling Students’ Union President, Astrid Smallenbroek, said: “We’re excited to see work begin on this project, which is set to transform the heart of the campus and deliver fantastic facilities which will benefit Stirling students for years to come.

“The Students’ Union has worked closely with the University to share the views of students, and our feedback has played an integral part in the plans. We particularly welcome the focus on enhancing the University’s student support service facilities and look forward to seeing the improved spaces in action.”

Incoming Stirling Students’ Union Vice President Education, Amy Smith, current Union Vice President Education, Daniel Wright, current Union President Astrid Smallenbroek and incoming Union President, Nelson Maxwell Acquah

The Campus Central development is expected to be completed in academic year 2020/21 and also aims to enhance existing connections between the university and the local community, by creating a new gateway to the Macrobert Arts Centre.

Julie Ellen, Artistic Director, Macrobert Arts Centre, said: “The Campus Central project will position Macrobert Arts Centre at the very heart of University life. We’re excited by the opportunities this redevelopment affords for all our customers, the students and staff who come to Macrobert from within the University, and the many people who travel to us from right across Central Scotland.

“During the redevelopment, we will be working hard with University partners to keep the disruption to a minimum and ensure our customers continue to enjoy great film, live performance and participatory activities at Macrobert Arts Centre.”

The £21.7m Campus Central will see the creation of:

• New student support facilities
• New learning and research collaboration spaces
• Pedestrianised Queen’s Court
• More social and study spaces
• Enhanced retail and catering