Construction of a new Engineering Building is due to start at the end of January as part of ambitious expansion plans to transform the Department into a prestigious School of Engineering.

Originally postponed in response to the pandemic, the University recently approved the development of the 2,900 square metre building along with enhancements to the existing Science and Technology building.

Situated to the West of the existing RIBA award-winning Engineering building, the new-build development plays an essential role in providing the department with specialist facilities in line with the Department’s expansion plans, integrating top-class facilities and globally renowned academic studies and research to deliver a truly engaging learning experience.

Amongst the facilities will be a new Distillation Column, Material Characterisation Laboratory, a suite of chemical engineering laboratories and a 3D Lecture Theatre, the first of its kind on campus.

In addition to the new building, the existing Science and Technology building will be upgraded to provide improved PhD study space and academic offices to enhance the facilities on offer.

Professor Claudio Paoloni, Head of Engineering at Lancaster University, said; “The Engineering Department is projected to become a world leading School of Engineering. This new building is pivotal in this exciting transition by providing new high-quality specialist spaces for engaging teaching and cutting-edge research.”

“In line with the University’s sustainability objectives, part of the scheme includes reuse and refurbishment of the existing Science and Technology building for more general and office use, whilst focusing the new build on specialist laboratory, teaching and research spaces.”

The new facilities and more than 25 new staff are essential in accommodating the increasing demand for engineering subjects from students and industry and support the continued success of the department, occupying an enviable top-10 position.

The department also hopes that the new facilities will help to establish strategic partnerships with industry, attracting a more diverse core of staff and students, and strengthening its reputation nationally and internationally. The department was awarded the Athena SWAN bronze award in 2018 in recognition of the work it has done to advance gender equality, an accolade they wish to build upon and exceed in years to come.

John Turner Construction Group have been appointed by the University as Principal Contractor. As a reputable contractor, with a strong relationship and knowledge of the University having worked on the recently completed Management School West Pavilion and Library Extension.

Construction is expected to commence late-January with completion in summer 2023.

Future updates on this project will be available on the Facilities website. To find out more about the Engineering Department, visit lancaster.ac.uk/engineering.