£350 million engineering campus unveiled

09 Sep 2015

Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) is one of the largest, single construction projects in higher education

The proposals for the Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) have been unveiled.

This will be one of the largest, single construction projects in higher education and will transform the way in which the University educates future engineers in response to the needs of the fast-changing global economy.

The building – due to open in 2020 – is part of the University’s campus masterplan to create a world-leading teaching, learning and research campus to develop the engineers and innovators of tomorrow.  The new site will act as a gateway between the existing University site and the city and will be located opposite the new National Graphene Institute on Booth Street East.

The campus will help demonstrate how UK engineering is one of the most creative industries in the world – a key feature on the ground floor of the main hall will be a dedicated ‘maker space’ which will provide dynamic workshops for students and academics to share ideas and innovate.

Professor Martin Schröder, Vice-President and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University, said: “This outstanding new campus development will build upon our proud heritage of innovation and discovery across engineering and science that began with the establishment of the Manchester Mechanics’ Institution in 1824.

“MECD will inspire engineers to continue our pioneering spirit and to apply their knowledge and help modern industry overcome the global challenges, such as climate change, finite natural resources and changing world markets.”

Once complete, MECD will become home to the University’s four engineering schools: MACE, EEE, CEAS and the School of Materials and two research institutes from the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.  It will include extensive, modern teaching spaces that reflect the changing demands of students and staff for mobile and flexible learning. Cutting-edge technologies will enable students across all disciplines to engage with new modes of teaching and become part of the global classroom.

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities, said:”This is the largest capital project we have ever undertaken and is a flagship development of the campus masterplan.  It has required a huge amount of effort and dedication by the project team and all involved to reach this point and its completion will play a major role in our ambitious vision for the campus.”

Demolition of the former Grosvenor Halls of Residence has already begun and will conclude during the first half of 2016.

The images will also form part of an exhibition for local residents, businesses and stakeholders on Thursday, 10 September.