Preston’s university has been given approval to redrawn the Adelphi roundabout and create its flagship building.

The £60million Adelphi Square project was given the green light by councillors on Preston City Council’s planning committee.

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During the meeting on Thursday (11 January) the scheme which includes a new student centre was passed.

Chief operating officer at the University of Central Lancashire Michael Ahern said: “Securing planning approval for this flagship project is fantastic news and we’re extremely grateful to the many people and organisations who came forward to provide us with their views during the consultation process. Their contribution was invaluable.

“It’s another significant step toward delivering a centre of learning where people of all interests and backgrounds can feel at ease, comfortable in their physical surroundings and supported in their academic, social and business aspirations.

“This project is of significant importance. Not only will it transform our campus but will positively contribute to the ongoing regeneration of Preston.”

Read more: Here’s how the new Adelphi Square is due to work

The scheme involves introducing a shared space and changing the priority of roads in the Adelphi roundabout area, a move criticised by charities for the blind who objected to the application.

A planning condition is being added to ensure there is a controlled crossing added to the scheme to ensure those who are partially sighted can safely cross the road.

Read more: How Preston reacted to Adelphi Square plans being recommended for approval

Adelphi Square is part of the £200million UCLan Preston campus masterplan.

Work is already underway on its new engineering centre which borders the Adelphi Square.

University bosses say the work on the scheme is due to start in 2019 and they are targeting having the work finished by the summer of 2020.

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