Developer appointed to build university’s new business school

The University of Derby has appointed a developer to build its new multi-million-pound business school in the city.

Kier has been chosen to construct the facility on land opposite the university’s One Friar Gate Square building.

The 100,000 sq ft, business school will make up the first element of the university’s city masterplan, which it has drawn up to help connect its various sites.

It will feature innovative teaching and learning spaces, including a virtual reality suite, stock market trading room and creative labs as well as a 233-seat auditorium.

Andrew Bevan, the university’s interim director of estates, said: “The development of the business school is a catalyst for the regeneration of our city hub site.

“I’m delighted that we have entered into a contract with Kier to deliver this landmark building, which is part of the University’s broader vision to expand its reach and reputation across the UK and globally.”

It is hoped that the business school, planning for which was secured last summer, will eventually be used by more than 6,000 students every year.

Two levels of the building will be open to the public, allowing students, academics, researchers and university staff to work alongside businesses based there, as well as with the wider business community.

Dan Doherty, regional director for Kier Construction North and Scotland, said: “The business school is a key strategic project in the University of Derby’s City Masterplan, and it marks the first project we will deliver for the university.

“We have extensive experience in delivering first-class higher education buildings and have no doubt that this business school will hugely benefit students, staff and the local community.”

During the build Kier will work with the university, local businesses and supply chain partners to create new jobs and apprenticeships, 25 work experience placements and two graduate opportunities.

It has also committed to a minimum of 160 hours of charity and community volunteering and regular site tours for students, staff and the local community. It said 85 per cent of the project spend will be made within 40 miles of the development.