Following consultations with users of our Watersports Centre, the University is pleased to share proposals for two new replacement buildings on this site.
The university’s current facilities are no longer fit for purpose, and replacing them will give the University the chance to improve the facilities for all by providing better site access arrangements and a more sustainable environment.
The new buildings will consolidate many of the existing spaces. A new Boat House will provide upgraded modern boat storage and workshop facilities for the University Rowing Club, with new hub space providing enhanced changing facilities and other equipment storage. Both buildings will be situated on higher ground within our site to avoid flooding issues.
A bespoke approach to sustainability will ensure that the new buildings are low carbon and energy efficient, in line with the University’s ambitious Sustainability Strategy. The development will work to de-carbonise operations by removing gas powered boilers. The design also considers the use of solar panels and air source heat pumps.
The buildings are located outside of protected habitats, and site surveys are currently being undertaken to understand the presence of any protected species on the site. Tree removals have been minimised far as possible and additional tree planting of native species is proposed. The planting of appropriate species, suitable for a site which regularly floods, will provide a net gain in biodiversity. The construction methodology is being carefully considered to ensure the site’s ecology will not be adversely affected.
This development is the next stage of the University’s £40 million investment in Sports and Wellbeing.
