Spades have been put in the ground as new ‘social spaces’ at the University of Central Lancashire take shape.

Costing more than £8million the new areas at Foster, Greenbank and Harrington buildings create ‘relaxed environments’ for learning.

Work so far has seen new foundations laid for the connection between the Greenbank and Harrington buildings, with 700 square metres of material excavated.

Piling has begun at the Foster building site, which is the larger of the two social spaces.

Conlon Construction is undertaking the work and says it hopes to have it completed by Autumn this year.

The new social spaces are part of the £200m revamp of the university’s Preston campus.

Read more: New look for Foster Building at Preston campus

Pro-chancellor David Taylor said: “Through our Masterplan vision the University is fully committed to providing outstanding facilities for students and it won’t be long until we start to see these new buildings taking shape. We are creating two exciting and inspiring social hubs which will respond flexibly to the changing needs of both students and staff.”

Designed by AHR the social spaces the work by Conlon is part of what UCLan say will create a ‘world-class campus’.

Chairman Michael Conlon said: “It’s exciting to start the construction of the new student-focused facilities and play a role in supporting UCLan’s vision for an inspirational learner experience on the campus.

“The University is in the heart of Preston city centre and attracts many talented students to the area which in return brings so much into the local economy. As a Preston-based construction company we’re always keen to get involved with projects that make our city an even better place to live, work and study.”

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

The social spaces have been created in conjunction with the university’s Students’ Union.

President Sana Iqbal said: “It’s fantastic to see the work beginning on the new social spaces, the quick turnaround of these spaces means that students who have been disrupted temporarily will reap the benefits.

“We’ve worked closely with the University to ensure the spaces meet the needs of a diverse range of students. It will be somewhere to relax between lectures, particularly for commuting students, a place to socialise and even use kitchen facilities. I’m looking forward to seeing the finished results.”

Do you study or work at UCLan? What do you think about the changes to the Preston campus? Let us know in the comments below