Preston’s university has opened a new multi-faith and spirituality centre.

Replacing the former centre in St Peter’s Square the Oasis saw representatives from faiths across the city congregate at the new centre in Kirkham Street.

Nestled in the shadow of the University of Central Lancashire’s Media Factory the building will be a space for religious and non-religious groups to come together.

Vice-chancellor professor Mike Thomas said: “Oasis is a fantastic testament to the multi-faith work being done here at the University. We will encourage our students, staff and neighbours to come together and celebrate in their own faith, learn about others and support each other.

“The centre offers the opportunity to take a break from study and from work in an environment conducive to improving well-being, developing friendships and discussing faith and community issues.”

The centre has a distinctive and colourful exterior put into place by F Parkinson Limited.

The university’s Students’ Union has worked closely to help ensure the new multi-faith centre is what students wanted.

President Sana Iqbal said: “Oasis is an inclusive space for people to use as they wish. It’s primarily student focused, but it’s also about inviting the community in, so it opens up opportunities to increase dialogue between local religious and community groups. Oasis is the product of years of student campaigning to improve faith facilities on campus and I’m hopeful the building will also be a vehicle for enhancing cohesion throughout the city.”

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The centre will be open seven-days-a-week from 7.30am until midnight and contains a prayer room, meditation roof and roof garden. It also houses a library.