New blocks are being built in the grounds of the Grade II listed Downshire House. The scheme had been opposed by local conservation and heritage groups.
The project is a part of the University’s wider masterplan to expand and improve campus facilities and will involve the construction of three four-storey blocks in the grounds of the historic house on Roehampton Lane.
The development will provide accommodation for 210 students and is expected to be complete in summer 2015.
Morgan Sindall area director Dave Cook said: “The University of Roehampton has worked closely with the local community in the development of the plans for this important and historic site and the new buildings will respect the setting of Downshire House while providing students with high-grade accommodation. It is an exciting project to be a part of and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the University and the project team in the delivery of the scheme.”
A number of architectural features in the grounds, including the gardens, balustrade and summer house, will be retained as part of the wider development. As a central feature of the planned developments, the formal garden will be restored and made more accessible. The plans will also see 19 new trees planted on the site and reinstatement of the Grade II listed sculpture The Watchers, which was removed following vandalism in 2006.
Other ongoing Morgan Sindallprojects in the higher education sector include a £41m project for the University of Cambridge to deliver its new Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology facility; a £16m project to upgrade facilities at the University of Hertfordshire; and a £9m project to construct a six-floor complex at the University of Portsmouth’s Eldon campus.
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