The Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) is described as “one of the largest, single construction projects ever undertaken by a higher education institution in the United Kingdom”.
The university says that the new facility will transform the way in which it educates future engineers.
The MECD project is being delivered through the university’s construction partnering framework. Balfour Beatty is one of the framework partners appointed in June and the University has begun an engagement process with Balfour Beatty as its construction partner on the scheme.
The project team also includes Arup as engineer, Sweett as cost consultant, Aecom as CDM coordinator and Buro Four as project manager.
The new development, designed by Mecanoo and scheduled to open in 2020, will be built opposite the new National Graphene Institute on Booth Street East, where the former Grosvenor Halls of Residence stood until recently. Connell Brothers Demolition began pulling these down in May and should have the site ready for Balfour Beatty to make a start during the first half of 2016.
Martin Schröder, dean of the university’s Faculty of Engineering & Physical Sciences, said: “This outstanding new campus development will build upon our proud heritage of innovation and discovery across engineering and science that began with the establishment of the Manchester Mechanics’ Institute in 1824.
“MECD will inspire engineers to continue our pioneering spirit and to apply their knowledge and help modern industry overcome global challenges, such as climate change, finite natural resources and changing world markets.”
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