University College Birmingham to expand into 'world class' city building

A major Birmingham university is set to expand into an iconic city building. University College Birmingham will be moving some of its key services into Grade II listed Baskerville House in Birmingham city centre.

The university said the move will acquire it 45,000 square feet of space as part of major growth plans. Baskerville House, a landmark in Centenary Square, will house the university's student support and student employability services, including a library and quiet learning spaces, and several professional services functions.

UCB bosses added that as part of the investment, they will also establish a meetings and events space to support local businesses, employers and industry partners in the heart of the city. The new faculty building sits among some of Birmingham's most recognisable landmarks, including the Library of Birmingham, the ICC and the Repertory Theatre and Symphony Hall.

READ MORE: Solihull headteacher giving 'shattered' teachers one day off a fortnight sparks debate

We are now on WhatsApp. Join our dedicated community here

University College Birmingham said that taking on Baskerville House will allow them to meet further growth demand by repurposing their existing Link Building at the city centre campus to house the new School of Psychology, Sport and Education, which opens in September 2024.

Vice Chancellor and Principal Professor Michael Harkin said: ”The University has a proud history of investing in the city centre to provide first class buildings and facilities for students, with close to £200 million spent in the last ten years. Working with our partners, we are committed to providing excellent opportunities for students and for stakeholders in the region and our most recent investments and newly announced plans for further expansion reinforces this commitment.

"Most recently, in December 2023, we completed a £23 million redevelopment of the former James Cond printworks, to create the Centre for Sustainable Construction and have enrolled over 400 construction students to establish what is already our biggest Further Education Department; our brand new £6 million Sixth Form Centre development in our Camden House building is now complete and, we look forward to welcoming our first cohort of Sixth formers in September 2024.

"Despite the freeze on undergraduate tuition fees for over six years and huge economic pressures, we have achieved our development aspirations in a cost effective and secure manner, without the need for external financial investment.

"Our move to the flagship Baskerville House places the University right at the heart of the city centre, further strengthening our ability to serve the people of Birmingham, its businesses and employers, as well as providing our students with the outstanding support services they deserve in a world class setting.”