How one of the new extensions to the UCLan campus will look – this is Foster building

Work has begun on creating more than £8million worth of ‘social spaces’ within Preston’s university campus.

The University of Central Lancashire is adding new sections to the Foster, Harrington and Greenbank buildings.

They are informal areas for socialising and break-out activities during seminars and lectures.

Chief operating officer at UCLan Michael Ahern said: “Increasingly, students expect 24-7 access to flexible, multi-purpose facilities. The new social spaces will accommodate, energise and inspire students and staff in a vibrant and engaging environment – one that people want to be part of.

“The best learning and research outcomes are achieved when a diverse range of environments are available and this will be a quality space which will blur the traditional boundaries between places to work and socialise.

“We’re pleased to be working with a local firm on this project, supporting jobs and the local economy, which is a key driver of the overall Masterplan.”

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

Preston-based construction firm Conlon Construction have been awarded the contract – just weeks after also securing the Preston Indoor Market work.

Chairman Michael Conlon said: “We are honoured to have been appointed to this project which will kick-start UCLan’s multi-million programme of works.

“As a contractor local to the scheme, we have undertaken a number of projects on campus over the years, including refurbishment of the Foster Building which this development will adjoin, so our familiarity with the University’s built environment, along with our extensive education experience, will ensure we can deliver a quality project on time and within budget.”

Read more: How student flats built on former Preston biscuit factory site may look

The new social spaces are expected to be in place for Autumn 2017 and is one of the early parts of the £200m masterplan for the Preston campus, with major work to the Adelphi roundabout and a new flagship building replacing what was Fylde building.

What do you think about the social spaces idea? And the development on the UCLan campus? Let us know in the comments below