Insider Media Limited

Staffordshire University has given the go-ahead for the construction of a £30m Science and Technology Centre. The centre, which will be developed on the University Quarter site, will be supported by an £8m investment from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).

Edinburgh-based Miller Construction has been appointed to start work on the Leek Road site immediately. It is due to open in the autumn of 2012.

The centre will accommodate all of the university’s science teaching and research as well as other specialist fields, including renewable energy and medical technologies.

The plan features specialist science and technology laboratories, a cognitive and developmental psychology suite, interview rooms, two lecture theatres which can transform into a single 250 seat facility, a dedicated IT suite, learning resource centre, flexible learning spaces, café and public exhibition space.

Staffordshire University deputy vice chancellor Paul Richards said: “The university has taken the decision that this can’t wait. The Science and Technology Centre is another giant step in the regeneration of North Staffordshire and we are confident it will make a significant impact on creating a science-literate community and a qualified workforce to help grow our science-based industries.

“The new centre will also provide the university and its partners with the facilities and capacity to undertake more consultancy and research which has relevance to the wider world.”

Science students from the City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College and neighbouring Stoke-on-Trent College will also make use of the new Science and Technology Centre, which aims to encourage progression to higher levels of study.

MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central Tristram Hunt welcomed the announcement, which coincides with the British Science Festival. He said: “I am delighted that the university has shown the leadership and ambition to continue with this profoundly important project. It is another step in the journey for Stoke-on-Trent as it moves towards a high-skill economy, in which universities and colleges become the wealth creators of tomorrow.

“It shows Stoke-on-Trent is open for new businesses, ideas and educators and makes a vital contribution to the ongoing regeneration of Stoke town.”