The First Light Pavilion project was honoured with two separate awards; the Innovation award, along with the Cheshire, Wirral and Warrington sub-regional Project of the Year.

The First Light Pavilion is an unusually complex project, with many structural and methodological challenges, which required innovative solutions. The need for the development of a full-scale prototype required intense collaboration and teamwork, to deliver this project – including the first concrete dome constructed in the UK for over 25 years. The project has been delivered on time, under-budget, and with economic and social value exceeding initial targets.

The ambitious project will be open to the public in May 2022 and for the first time, allow visitors to engage with the unique turning point that occurred with the emergence of radio astronomy and the dawn of the Space Age, and the role of Jodrell Bank and the UK scientists in that scientific and cultural revolution. The stunning new facilities will house an exhibition gallery, education areas, a projection space and a new cafe situated within the gardens at Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre.

Teresa Anderson, Director Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, said: “This is another major milestone in our First Light Project which has been kindly supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and we are overjoyed to be able to see the construction of our stunning new building come to completion. Kier has done an incredible job realising the building’s ambitious design and we can’t wait to finish the exhibition installation and finally welcome visitors into the building next year.”

Manchester Museum was also victorious, winning the Manchester sub-regional Project of the Year for its transformation project, hello future. Kier recently completed work on the museum’s two-storey extension and the judges said this was a ‘great project’ and collaboration was at the heart of its success.

It featured complicated site logistics and arrangements, with work adjacent to live Grade II listed buildings and in a city centre location. Extensive collaboration between the client, design team and supply chain was fundamental to this project, which required over 18,000 artefacts to be moved or remain in-situ and be protected from building work.

Manchester Museum is currently closed to the public for the final phase of construction and it will reopen at the end of 2022.

Esme Ward, Manchester Museum Director said: “We’re thrilled that our transformation won the Manchester Project of the Year Award and we’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The University of Manchester, and numerous philanthropic supporters. It’s not just about extending the footprint of the museum, we’re also renewing our creative and civic mission. We look forward to reopening our doors in 2022 and welcoming visitors to a more inclusive, caring and imaginative museum. Congratulations to Kier and Jodrell Bank on their well-deserved awards.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities, said: “These two distinctive projects thoroughly deserve these awards. Both projects are unique and the project teams have worked hard to ensure that they were not only delivered successfully but that the design and materials for each project reflects the different environments in which they are situated.”

The internationally-significant project will cement the UK’s position in the science and technology sector; providing vital specialist infrastructure to power the growth of the knowledge economy and unlock the potential to commercialise R&D innovation, supporting the UK to build back better and level up.

The University and Bruntwood SciTech, a 50:50 joint venture between Bruntwood and Legal & General, will now form a new joint venture to enhance, develop and deliver the vision to establish ID Manchester as a new innovation district, home to a global community that will play a vital role in the future of the UK science and technology sector, with the potential to create over 10,000 new jobs in the next 10-15 years.

Place design and placemaking will be central to the development of ID Manchester, which when complete will provide over four million square feet (370,000 square metres) including 2.6 million square feet (240,000 square metres) of new commercial workspace and a £28 million investment in the public realm that will provide a focal point for a vibrant events programme.

The area benefits from existing green space and the unique feature of the 650,000 square feet (60,000 square metres) Grade II-listed Sackville Street Building.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “The journey to find our joint venture partner to work with us on delivering ID Manchester has been hugely rewarding for everyone involved. The quality and calibre of the submissions we received was truly outstanding and I would like to extend our gratitude to those who were unsuccessful.

“Innovation is a core theme for the University as we enter our third century. The opportunity afforded by ID Manchester will provide more chances for our research to have an impact on the real world, it will be a place where we address the challenges facing the world in the 21st century and to explore new ideas to improve the health, wealth and happiness of our fellow citizens.

“Bruntwood SciTech shares many of the same values and principles as The University of Manchester and throughout our detailed discussions with them, their commitment and approach to sustainability, inclusivity and collaboration aligned closely with our vision for ID Manchester. We look forward to working together to create an outstanding innovation district which will play a large role in helping the UK to build back better.”

Chris Oglesby, executive chair, Bruntwood SciTech said: “From the splitting of the atom, to the first isolation of graphene, Manchester has been at the forefront of global innovation. The ambition to create an innovation district of this size and scale will help transform the UK’s knowledge economy and cement the UK’s status as world leader in science, technology and engineering.

“Working in partnership with The University of Manchester, we will create a global exemplar that will support national and international investment into science and technology, creating new pathways for the translation of research, and new cultures for enterprise.

“It’s also an opportunity to build something with purpose and a social conscience at its heart from the outset. ID Manchester will champion a more progressive and sustainable model of economic success, one that works for all people and the planet.

“To be selected to deliver a project of such scale, ambition and international significance is a privilege and we cannot wait to get started.”

Bruntwood SciTech is a 50:50 JV between Bruntwood and Legal & General. ID Manchester is Legal & General’s ninth significant urban regeneration scheme, having invested billions of pounds in partnerships with universities such as Oxford and Newcastle and Local Authorities in areas such as Cardiff, Salford and Sunderland.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “This announcement is a welcome step forward for the plan to create a world-leading innovation district in Manchester city centre. ID Manchester will be another important asset for our city-region, supporting jobs in the science and technology sectors as we look to grow our economy beyond the pandemic.”

Nigel Wilson, Group Chief Executive Legal & General said: “Universities are a key driver for the growth of cities, acting as a magnet for talent and incubator of growth and innovation. They have an integral role in shifting the dial for future success. This partnership is a unique opportunity to invest in, and develop, a significant, long-term and patient capital project that is economically viable and socially useful. Supporting the government’s “levelling up” agenda, it embodies inclusive capitalism in one of the UK’s strongest regional cities, as we build back better and help create a more inclusive post-pandemic society.”

It is expected the joint venture agreement will be signed by the autumn. The new joint venture partnership will see Stanhope plc appointed as strategic development manager in their first project outside of the South East of England, confirming the developer’s commitment to the Life Sciences sector across the UK. The partnership will work together on the next stage of the masterplan for ID Manchester.

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester said: “ID Manchester will be a unique new neighbourhood. Our vision draws on Manchester’s ecosystem of ideas, discovery, research and development, and ID Manchester will provide the canvas on which all those strands can come together to take urban regeneration to a whole new level. ID Manchester will be where our most valuable discoveries today, are tried, tested and developed into the technology, buildings and commerce of tomorrow. We are looking forward to working with Bruntwood SciTech to build on our vision and deliver ID Manchester.”

The opportunity for ID Manchester follows the completion of the new £400 million Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) which will be the largest home for engineering in any UK university and provide world-class sustainable teaching and research facilities for 8,000 students, researchers, academics and professional services staff who will relocate from their existing facilities.

The University occupies the recently opened £60 million Masdar Building, home to the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology at the south end of the site and these key research institutes and the University’s world leading strengths in Health Innovation and Digital Technology will form core pillars from which the cluster of companies located at ID Manchester will be built.

ID Manchester is poised to become one of the final pieces of transformative urban regeneration within the city centre and an exemplar for a new approach to sustainable, inclusive development.

ID Manchester is located to the south of the city centre adjacent to Piccadilly Railway Station, the University campus, and the existing innovation ecosystem clustered around Oxford Road, part of the largest clinical academic campus in Europe and includes Circle Square, the Citylabs campus, and Manchester Science Park - all three of which are already part of the Bruntwood SciTech network, and the £1 billion investment already being made into its main Oxford Road campus by The University of Manchester.

Because of the unique collection of institutions and businesses based here, the local neighbourhood has become recognised as home to one of Europe’s most important innovation ecosystems. ID Manchester represents the largest remaining development opportunity adjacent to this internationally important innovation hub.

Today, The University of Manchester announced it has progressed to the next stage of the process to find a development and investment partner to deliver the £1.5 billion new world-class innovation district ID Manchester.

At the end of February, the University received outline submissions it had invited from bidders following the initial round of dialogue. The University has notified all of the bidders that it has reviewed the submissions received and will proceed in due course with detailed dialogue with the four highest scoring bidders.

In light of the Coronavirus outbreak, the University has notified the four highest scoring bidders that it is pausing the procurement process and the timetable for the detailed dialogue stage for eight weeks, when the situation will be reviewed.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “Clearly, it makes sense to pause the procurement process as we all adapt to the unprecedented circumstances caused by the coronavirus outbreak, but we remain committed to this project and I still truly believe we can make ID Manchester the innovation capital of Europe, providing the perfect conditions for organisations of all sizes and from different sectors, to share knowledge and work together turning incredible ideas into reality.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester said: “This is more than a property transaction. ID Manchester will create a new, world-class innovation district situated in the heart of Manchester and alongside the University. Although we are pausing the procurement process in response to current circumstances, we look forward to resuming detailed dialogue with the selected bidders (perhaps using some alternatives to face-to-face meetings) in order to advance this exciting project.”

The Vision for ID Manchester

ID Manchester will be a new neighbourhood that will be an engine for economic growth with the potential to create over 6,000 new jobs.

The University has strong track record in developing long-lasting, commercial relationships with leading global organisations such as Rolls Royce, the BBC, Siemens UK, Colgate Palmolive, Unilever and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

Since 2004 the University has contributed £746 million to the economy through nurturing and developing businesses spinning out of its research and development facilities, and it is on these foundations it seeks to build ID Manchester.

Diana Hampson said “ID Manchester will be a unique new neighbourhood. Our vision draws on Manchester’s ecosystem of ideas, discovery, research and development, and ID Manchester will provide the canvas on which all those strands can come together to take urban regeneration to a whole new level. ID Manchester will be where our most valuable discoveries today, are tried, tested and developed into the technology, buildings and commerce of tomorrow.”

The available development space for ID Manchester to 4 million square feet (370,000 square metres) and updated indicative development plans include:

• 2.6 million square feet (240,000 square metres) of new work space
• Three acres (1.2 hectares) of high-quality public realm

The site benefits from existing green space and the unique feature of the 650,000 square feet (60,000 square metres) Grade II-listed Sackville Street Building, which offers a fantastic opportunity for repurposing.

The University occupies the recently opened £60 million Masdar Building, home to the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology at the south end of the site and is looking for a partner to develop the remaining c.18 acres (7.3 hectares) of the site.

ID Manchester is adjacent to Manchester’s main public transport hub, Piccadilly Railway Station and is a 20-minute train journey to the international airport.

ID Manchester is one of the last major development opportunity sites in the city, another piece in the jigsaw of the major regeneration taking place in that area of the city, including Mayfield, London Road Fire Station, Kampus, Circle Square and the £1 billion investment already being made into its main Oxford Road campus by The University of Manchester.

Today The University of Manchester announced it received an impressive response to its international search to find a development and investment partner to deliver the £1.5 billion new world-class innovation district ID Manchester.

The University has reviewed all the submissions and has invited the six highest scoring candidates to move on to the dialogue stage of the procurement process. As part of this next stage, further submissions will be made to the University in February next year.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: ”The high calibre and quality of the submissions we received clearly shows our vision for ID Manchester, coupled with our track record as an engine of innovation and research excellence, and Manchester’s continued transformation into a major European city has captured international, as well as national attention.”

“ID Manchester is far more than a property transaction; I truly believe we can make ID Manchester the innovation capital of Europe, providing the perfect conditions for organisations of all sizes and from different sectors, to share knowledge and work together turning incredible ideas into reality.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester said: “ID Manchester will create a new, world-class innovation district situated in the heart of Manchester and alongside the University. It is where the next generation of game-changing businesses will be nurtured, and it will bring huge economic benefits to our city region and beyond.”

Sir Richard Leese, leader, Manchester City Council said: “I am very pleased to hear the University has received such impressive submissions from potential partners for ID Manchester, it is just another example of the continued international impact of Manchester and the University.”

The Vision for ID Manchester

ID Manchester will be a new neighbourhood that will be an engine for economic growth with the potential to create over 6,000 new jobs.

The University has strong track record in developing long-lasting, commercial relationships with leading global organisations such as Rolls Royce, the BBC, Siemens UK, Colgate Palmolive, Unilever and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

Since 2004 the University has contributed £746 million to the economy through nurturing and developing businesses spinning-out of its research and development facilities, and it is on these foundations it seeks to build ID Manchester.

Diana Hampson said “ID Manchester will be a unique new neighbourhood. Our vision draws on Manchester’s eco-system of ideas, discovery, research and development, and ID Manchester will provide the canvas on which all those strands can come together to take urban regeneration to a whole new level. ID Manchester will be where our most valuable discoveries today, are tried, tested and developed into the technology, buildings and commerce of tomorrow.”

The available development space for ID Manchester to 4 million square feet (370,000 square metres) and updated indicative development plans include:

• 2.6 million square feet (240,000 square metres) of new work space
• Three acres (1.2 hectares) of high-quality public realm

The site benefits from existing green space and the unique feature of the 650,000 square feet (60,000 square metres) Grade II listed Sackville Street Building, which offers a fantastic opportunity for re-purposing.

The University occupies the recently opened £60 million Masdar Building, home to the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology at the south end of the site and is looking for a partner to develop the remaining c.18 acres (7.3 hectares) of the site.

ID Manchester is adjacent to Manchester’s main public transport hub, Piccadilly Railway Station and is a 20-minute train journey to the international airport.

ID Manchester is one of the last major development opportunity sites in the city, another piece in the jigsaw of the major regeneration taking place in that area of the city including Mayfield, London Road Fire Station, Kampus, Circle Square and the £1 billion investment already being made into its main Oxford Road campus by The University of Manchester.

It is envisaged that the process will take around 12 months, with a partner announcement being made in autumn 2020.

A new multimillion pound research institute that will maximise Manchester’s academic strengths in digital health and advanced materials to discover innovative health and care solutions is being launched by a consortium, led by The University of Manchester.

The centre will be called The Christabel Pankhurst Institute for Health Technology. The name celebrates the connection between the University and Dame Christabel Pankhurst, a driving force behind one of the most significant social reforms of the 20th century. As well as honouring a distinguished alumna, the name also demonstrates the University's commitment to redress the under-representation of women and other groups in science and academic leadership though its equality, diversity and inclusion action plan.

The Institute is being launched following a £5million award from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s (GMCA) Local Growth Fund and is part of an ambitious plan set out in the Greater Manchester (GM) Local Industrial Strategy to boost the city-region’s provision in this area. The consortium is made up of the University, Manchester Science Partnerships (MSP), Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT), and Health Innovation Manchester (HInM).

The initiative will build on investments from the University, MSP, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), and The Alan Turing Institute, creating a total budget of more than £25m.

The aim of the collaboration is to capitalise on the University’s strengths in digital health and advanced materials and develop innovative products and services for the health care sector. In turn this will drive business growth and employment as well as boost the long-term health benefits of the city region.

The institute will be housed in a flagship building at the centre of the University’s campus on the Oxford Road Corridor, as well as having bespoke, state-of-the-art research and business development spaces at MSP's Citylabs campus. This location and partnership will provide support for business growth by facilitating better collaboration between the NHS, researchers and industry through MSP, MFT, Health Innovation Manchester and the University.

The institute will play a critical role in pulling innovations through from basic research to market ready products and services, which can then be accelerated into clinical use through Greater Manchester’s devolved health and care system and established innovation pathway. To achieve this it will build on, integrate and enhance the already extensive support provided by the partners.

Minister of State for the Northern Powerhouse and Local Growth, the Rt Hon Jake Berry MP, said: “We are committed to boosting economic growth across the Northern Powerhouse while ensuring that every community has the support and investment it needs to flourish as we prepare to leave the EU on 31 October.

“Thanks to £5m of Government investment from the Local Growth Fund, a world-class facility for health technology and research is being built in the heart of Manchester. As a key part of the Greater Manchester Local Industrial Strategy, the Christabel Pankhurst Institute is testament to the strengths of partnership working while cementing the Northern Powerhouse’s reputation for being at the global forefront of health, science and innovation.”

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council and Deputy Mayor for Business and Economy for Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), said: “The Christabel Pankhurst Institute for Health Technology and Innovation is another impressive example of how Greater Manchester is leading the way with outstanding technological and scientific innovation. Health innovation is one of the city's key strengths and an integral part of our Local Industrial Strategy, developed jointly with the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership and agreed with the government. It's part of our journey to become a world-leading centre for health innovation and the best place in the country to grow up, get on and grow old.”

Sir Mike Deegan, Chief Executive of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to be part of an initiative with our partners that will support researchers in accessing cutting-edge data and materials that will develop into improved treatment and care for our patients”.

Prof Ben Bridgewater, Chief Executive of Health Innovation Manchester, commented: “Greater Manchester is world class when it comes to health innovation and advanced materials, underpinned by assets in digital technology and data science. The The Christabel Pankhurst Institute will play a pivotal role in discovering and developing market ready innovations that we can deploy across the city-region, to ultimately improve the health and wellbeing of our citizens.”

Rowena Burns, Chair of Manchester Science Partnerships which in partnership with the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust is developing the Citylabs health innovation campus, said, “The University of Manchester is at the leading edge of research which will transform our ability to predict and prevent disease. The Pankhurst Institute will provide a dedicated facility for bringing this research together and play a key role in shortening the journey from academic discovery to world-leading industry innovation.”

Mike Blackburn, Chair of the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), added: “The LEP brings together private and public sectors across the city-region to support, among many other things, the development of local skills and innovation. The Christabel Pankhurst Institute for Health Technology and Innovation is being launched following a £5 million award from Local Growth Fund here in Greater Manchester – it is successful partnership working such as this that will enable organisations such as the University to continue to go from strength to strength.”

HRH toured the new state-of-the-art facility in Manchester today (Monday 10 December) and met with leading academics and the University’s graphene industry partners and entrepreneurs.

The GEIC complements the National Graphene Institute’s (NGI) international research focus by concentrating on multi-faceted industry-led applications development. The key areas within the new building include; pilot productions, characterisation and material development.

The GEIC will accelerate the commercial impact of graphene and help realise its potential to revolutionise countless industries. It has been made possible by the generous support of its sponsors: Masdar, Research England, Innovate UK, ERDF, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

During the visit The Duke took in an exhibition of the latest graphene products and prototypes including; pioneering graphene-oxide membranes for water filtration, graphene composite battery panels, an innovative unmanned aerial vehicle made with graphene-enhanced carbon fibre, and a modified BAC Mono sports car with graphene-enhanced composite bodywork.

HRH, who’s three core areas of focus include; education and skills, entrepreneurship, and science, technology and engineering, met with entrepreneurs from five of the University’s graphene spin-out companies who are developing next-generation applications through the NGI and GEIC whilst establishing their own companies in Manchester. The Duke was accompanied by representatives of the University leadership team, the building’s funders and local government officials.

Speaking at the opening ceremony HRH The Duke of York said said: "It is a great pleasure to be back at The University of Manchester and to come and see the next stage in the development of graphene.

"The question I've been asking is, 'how do people who are in manufacturing or other businesses know what graphene can do for them?' or more accurately, 'what can the new 2D materials do for them?'

"This is an excellent place for businesses who may suddenly find that graphene or a 2D material is in their interest, and just from my short visit today, the ideas seem to be limitless in how you can apply them. This is going to be a huge industrial transformation which could benefit both humankind and industry and it starts here. I wish you all every success."

Professor Luke Georghiou, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University said: “The GEIC is a first step to realising a transformation of our wider surroundings. Manchester was known around the globe as Cottonopolis at the height of the Industrial Revolution – in this century our aim is to be Graphene City – a district where 2D materials and complementary technologies drive jobs and growth.”

Along with the NGI and the Henry Royce Institute (set to be completed in 2020) the GEIC will be crucial in maintaining the UK’s world leading position in advanced materials.

James Baker, CEO of Graphene@Manchester said: “The GEIC is a key component of the University’s strategy for Graphene@Manchester. With the ecosystem we are creating here in Manchester we can accelerate the commercialisation of real-world applications and transition graphene and other 2D materials from the lab to the marketplace. We are reaching a tipping point now where the expectations for graphene are becoming reality.”

Masdar, CEO Mohamed Al Ramahi said: “As a global renewable energy leader, we invest in technologies with untapped commercial potential. Today’s opening of the Masdar Building highlights an exciting future for Masdar, the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre and The University of Manchester as we work together on this pioneering project over the coming months and years.”

The GEIC has already created more than 40 jobs in addition to academics to grow the University community to over 300 graphene-related staff at the University. International partners including First Graphene have also located their European-base of operations at the GEIC and have recruited additional staff in Manchester.

Jake Berry MP, Minister for the Northern Powerhouse and Local Growth said: “I am delighted that we have been able to support the completion of the Graphene Engineering and Innovation Centre with £5m from the local growth fund. The innovation led by the GEIC will secure the UK’s position as the world-leader in this cutting edge technology, putting Manchester and the Northern Powerhouse on the global stage.”

The building, designed by world-renowned architect Rafael Vinoly, is 8,400 square metres in size. It was built by contractors Laing O’Rourke, BBK, Ramboll, CH2M Hill and project managed by Arcadis.

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester, said: “The GEIC will be home to graphene-specialist staff based at The University of Manchester, working directly alongside industry with state-of-the-art and bespoke equipment at their disposal. It will allow Manchester to build on its pioneering research and enable industry to translate that work into commercial applications.”

Advanced materials is one of The University of Manchester’s research beacons - examples of pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet. #ResearchBeacons

The University of Manchester building for Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC) researchers has been renamed in a ceremony to honour the contribution of Michael Oglesby, his family, and the Oglesby Charitable Trust to cancer research in Manchester.

Michael has been the chair of the MCRC steering board for 12 years and has played a major role in the growth of cancer research in Manchester during that time. It is in recognition of this role that the building will now be known as the Oglesby Cancer Research Building.

The building for MCRC researchers opposite the Christie, opened in 2015 and houses 150 scientists and 100 academic and support staff. The MCRC is an internationally renowned and hugely successful partnership between The Christie, The University of Manchester and Cancer Research UK. The naming ceremony took place on 20 November.

Professor Nic Jones, inaugural Director of the MCRC, said: “This building means an awful lot to me and I am so thrilled that from now on it will be named in Michael’s honour. He was instrumental in getting the project off the ground and in guiding its development through the inevitable ups and downs.

“His tireless support for the Centre and its ambitions has been there right from the start. We started on that journey together not really knowing how far it would take us and sharing that journey has been so inspiring.”

Professor Rob Bristow, MCRC Director, said: “I came to Manchester last year because I saw a unique opportunity. Much of that was down the ethos of collaboration that this building represents, and the ambition shown by Michael and the rest of the MCRC leadership. It is fantastic that we can honour him in this way.”

Michael holds an honorary doctorate from the University, is one of its most generous donors and has made huge contributions in money, time and influence to the University and beyond.

Michael, who was joined by his family said: “We are very proud to have the Oglesby name associated with this building, which is a landmark building in the city. It makes a statement to the rest of the world about Manchester’s success and ambition in cancer research. But most importantly it tells patients that their first class treatment has cutting edge science behind it, which in turn gives them hope, and that is priceless.”

The Oglesby Charitable Trust has supported many initiatives and projects across the University, but with a considerable focus on cancer. The Trust made a lead gift to the MCRC building and a further gift to the Centre for Cancer Biomarkers. Michael’s visionary philanthropy has also led to establishing a translational patient-centred research group to investigate an unusual type of chronic leukaemia (CMML).

Michael is also playing a leading role in the development of plans for a new world-class cancer research facility which is to be built at The Christie on the site of the Paterson building which suffered devastating fire damage in April 2017 displacing over 300 scientists and support staff.

Located across the road from the Oglesby Cancer Research Building, it will be a major step forward in realising the MCRC’s ambition of becoming one of the world’s top five centres for basic, translational and clinical cancer research.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “Virtually wherever you walk across our campus, if you look closely enough, you’ll find evidence of quite what an impact the Oglesby family has had on the University across a wide range of fields of endeavour. However, the area that Michael’s enthusiasm, commitment and insight has had the greatest impact is cancer research, which makes this naming so appropriate.”

About Michael Oglesby

Michael Oglesby CBE DL LLD DSC founded the Bruntwood Group of companies in 1978 which is now one of the leading commercial property owners and developers in the English regions, owning in excess of 120 buildings in central and south Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and Birmingham, with a value in excess of £1,000 million.

At the end 2013 Michael relinquished executive responsibility in the company and is now devoting his time to a broad portfolio of principally philanthropic activities covering the arts, civic roles, philanthropy, health and education

He is Chairman of the Oglesby Charitable Trust which has given in excess of £16 million to over 300 charities during the last 20 years. The Trust has a broad portfolio of giving which for many years has included support for both the Christie and The University of Manchester encompassing medical research, contributing to a number of major building projects and arts installations.

Michael is a former High Sheriff and Vice Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and, in the 2011 January Honours List, was awarded the CBE for his services to Industry and Charity.

Cancer

Cancer is one of The University of Manchester’s research beacons - examples of pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet. #ResearchBeacons

The Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) – one of the largest capital projects ever undertaken by a UK higher education institution – has celebrated a key milestone in its construction.

A special event today marked the ‘topping out’ of the landmark development, a world-class facility that will benefit staff, students and visitors. MECD will house the University’s engineering disciplines, innovative teaching spaces and research institutes such as the Dalton Nuclear Institute and the BP International Centre for Advanced Materials (BP-ICAM).

The topping out ceremony was led by Professor Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, and Leo Quinn, the Group CEO of Balfour Beatty. As guests watched, the University’s Director of Estates and Facilities Diana Hampson, the Vice-President/Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering Professor Martin Schröder and Balfour Beatty’s Chief Executive Dean Banks joined Nancy and Leo to sign a steel girder which marks the highest point of the new facility.

The £400 million project forms an essential part of The University of Manchester’s ten-year Campus Masterplan. It will support the University’s strategic goals by providing an outstanding learning environment and student experience, supporting world class research and further enabling the university’s social responsibility agenda.

Located near Oxford Road, MECD will consolidate the majority of the University’s estate onto one main campus, creating a more compact and coherent infrastructure that reduces the institution’s carbon footprint and costs. The move will also free up considerable land holdings in the north of the campus, enabling the University to play a significant role in the future economic success of the city by developing the site into a world-class innovation district over the next 20 years.

Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “For well over a century The University of Manchester has celebrated many achievements in science and engineering, and across our other disciplines too. The University’s impact on and contribution to society is constantly evolving and this can be vividly seen through our buildings.

“MECD will create a world-leading teaching, learning and research facility to develop the engineers, scientists and innovators of tomorrow.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester, added: “The Manchester Engineering Campus Development will create state-of-the-art facilities that will put the University at the forefront of engineering globally, helping attract even more world-class talent to the institution. We are proud to provide such an exceptional space for our exceptional people.”

Key partners in the development include Balfour Beatty, concept architects Mecanoo, detail architects BDP, project managers Buro Four, project engineers Arup and cost managers Arcadis.

Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive, said: “We are proud to be working with the University of Manchester to deliver this innovative and world-class facility. I’m certain it will add to the UK’s reputation for engineering excellence - and encourage and inspire the next generations of expert engineers who will study here and help to shape our future.”

Upon completion, the development will host a wide range of flexible hi-specification laboratories and lecture spaces to welcome up to 7,000 students and 1,300 staff. MECD will also incorporate blended learning facilities, workshops and a ‘maker space’ where students will see their engineering creations come to life. Students will have the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects ranging from artificial intelligence and robotics to sustainable energy solutions and space craft. Upon completion, the facility will benefit from ‘green’ construction techniques resulting in smart energy consumption and advanced water recycling and waste systems.

At peak construction, the project will employ a workforce of 1,000, including multiple apprenticeships and graduate placements. The project will also create new job opportunities for local people through the University’s Construction Academy, which provides local residents with exposure to career opportunities in the construction sector. The project team will maximise the use of off-site manufacturing and the latest technology to optimise construction efficiency and deliver a smart facility of the highest standard.

For more information, visit the MECD website.

Staff, students, visitors and members of the local community have attended a celebratory health and wellbeing event marking the official opening of Brunswick Park at the heart of The University of Manchester’s campus.

The event began with an official tree planting ceremony by Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor and was followed by live jazz performances, a choir and a range of free health and wellbeing taster sessions.

The free activities were complemented with refreshments and visitors were provided with information on The University of Manchester’s approach to sustainability and wellbeing from stands hosted by staff.

Located off Oxford Road opposite the Whitworth Hall, Brunswick Park is the largest green space on campus and includes seating areas, tree, shrub and wildflower planting and pedestrian/cycle paths. The parkland was created on the site of the former Brunswick Street to benefit staff, students, visitors and the local community, and is a central part of the University’s Campus Masterplan vision.

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities, said: “Brunswick Park is a fantastic new asset, creating a heart of the campus for everyone to enjoy. We were proud to welcome staff and members of the local community to this event to celebrate our new green space and public realm.”

To mark the parkland’s official opening, the University arranged a series of free outdoor taster sessions throughout the afternoon. Activities on offer included Tai Chi, yoga, street dance, yogalates, Zumba, hoops and cardio-blast.

The park was completed thanks to the generosity of Manchester alumnus and supporter Sam Chan, who made a transformational £1 million gift towards the project.

The University of Manchester’s Board of Governors has approved a proposal to seek a corporate partner to develop its North Campus site in Manchester city centre into a world-class innovation district over the next 20 years.

This development is made possible by the scheduled move of the University’s engineering schools to the new multi-million Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) adjacent to the University’s main Oxford Road campus, in 2021.

Working with its partner, the University expects that the mixed-use site will attract research, development, cultural and technology companies, as well as accommodating new residential space. The area and buildings for development are around Sackville Street and adjacent to Piccadilly Rail and Metrolink stations. The plan is to develop the 11.8 hectare (29 acre) site into an exciting research and business campus, where the world’s most valuable ideas will be transformed into reality.

The University will retain significant strategic and decision-making influence within the partnership. It will retain the south end of the site where it has significant research activity, including the newly built Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, and it will continue to hold the freehold for the whole site.

Targeting technology and science-related occupiers, the site will focus on specialities which combine the research and industrial strengths of the University and the city region with national economic priorities. These will include advanced materials, applied health innovation, artificial intelligence and digital technology and industrial biotechnology.

The development is projected to generate potentially up to £2 billion of growth* over the next 20 years or more for the local economy and is projected to create up to 6,000 jobs. It will also help to ensure the long-term financial strength of the University by delivering a continuing future income stream for investment in the University’s educational and research activities.

Plans are at an early stage and the next step will be a rigorous search for a partner. The University has been discussing its plans with Manchester City Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. It is envisaged that work on the site will begin after the University transfers staff and existing facilities into its new MECD buildings in 2021.

North Campus represents a unique opportunity to create an exciting innovation district within a UK city-centre location. It will be allied to one of the UK’s foremost research-intensive universities, with high connectivity to a skilled local workforce. It will provide opportunities for graduate employment and student placements; and the development will benefit from outstanding transport links, plus access to national and international markets.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said of the development: “We will be launching an international search in the next few months to find the very best joint venture partner to work with us to develop this prime site with its landmark buildings and unique footprint in the heart of the city.

“The development offers the opportunity to transform this quarter of the city centre, generate thousands of new jobs and advance the reputation of the University. It will cement the reputation of the city as the place to be for technology, digital, research and development businesses - where the world’s most valuable ideas will be transformed into reality.”

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council commented: “The potential of the North Campus site is huge and this is great news for Manchester.

“There are tremendous opportunities to regenerate this distinctive part of the city and we welcome the University’s growth, investment and job creation ambitions for the development.”

The Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) at The University of Manchester has celebrated a key milestone in its construction.

The first phase of the building has now been handed over to the University ahead of the installation and fit-out of equipment. Additional works are already underway to fit out the laboratories ahead of the centre opening later this year.

This is the first look at the newly completed £60m Centre, which will be housed in The Masdar Building, which will accelerate the commercial pace of graphene and 2D materials in Manchester.

The GEIC will focus on industry-led application development in partnership with academics. It will fill a critical gap in the graphene and 2D materials ecosystem by providing facilities that focus on pilot production, characterisation, together with application development in composites, energy, solution formulations and coatings, electronics and membranes.

Along with the National Graphene Institute and the £105m Henry Royce Institute building (set to be completed in 2019) the GEIC will be crucial in maintaining the UK’s world leading position in advanced materials.

The GEIC will also act as the cornerstone of the University’s vision to create a Graphene City in the heart of Manchester, made up of; scientists, manufacturers, engineers, innovators, investors and industrialists to build a thriving knowledge-based economy.

James Baker, CEO Graphene@Manchester, said: “The GEIC is a key component of the University’s strategy for Graphene@Manchester. The centre’s aim is to accelerate the commercialisation to real-world applications to transition graphene and other 2D materials from the lab to the marketplace.”

“As both the renewable energy company of Abu Dhabi and the principal funder of the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, we’re thrilled to witness the handover of the first phase of this unique collaborative project, strengthening as it does the close business, academic and cultural ties between Abu Dhabi and the city of Manchester,” said Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar.

“The GEIC will position the United Arab Emirates at the heart of a critical knowledge industry and complement Masdar’s strategy to participate in the application of advanced clean technologies as soon as they show commercial potential,” Al Ramahi added. “Moreover, the GEIC will enhance ongoing collaboration in graphene research between the University of Manchester and the Masdar Institute, part of the Khalifa University of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi.”

Liam Cummins, Head of UK Building for Laing O’Rourke said: “We’re delighted to hand over this fantastic facility on time and on budget for The University of Manchester and its funding partners.

“It’s also exciting to have completed our first project as part of The University of Manchester Construction Partnering Framework and we’re keen to take the momentum into our next project on the framework; the The Sir Henry Royce Institute.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester, said: “This building plays an important role in The University’s Campus Masterplan, creating a world-class facility of benefit to our researchers. The GEIC will help consolidate The University of Manchester’s status as a world-leader in graphene and related 2D materials research.”

Mel Manku, Arcadis Partner and UK Regional Sector Leader, Education said: “The Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre will allow Manchester and the UK to take a truly world-leading position in graphene and other 2D materials..

“The city of Manchester and wider Northern Powerhouse region are at the forefront of generating prosperity outside of London, and critical facilities like this will lead the world in terms of research and innovation. Arcadis are extremely proud to have worked with the university on this significant project.”

The new flagship facility has been funded by Masdar-an Abu Dhabi based renewable energy and clean technology company, Research England, the European Regional Development Fund, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Innovate UK.

Advanced materials is one of The University of Manchester’s research beacons - examples of pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet. #ResearchBeacons

Manchester Museum, part of The University of Manchester has received a confirmed grant of £4,215,800 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for a major capital project, it was announced today.

Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, the project will develop and transform the museum by providing new exhibition space, the North’s first South Asian gallery and an improved programme of outreach.

Through ‘The Courtyard project’, Manchester Museum will become the UK’s most imaginative, inclusive and caring museum. As the UK’s leading university museum, the museum is committed to becoming an ever more powerful source of inspiration for learning for more people. This transformation, driven by social purpose, will make the museum more relevant and welcoming to all ages and communities.

Work will start in August 2018 and the finished building will reopen in late 2020. The transformation will include;

• A major new Temporary Exhibitions Gallery enabling the museum to become the North of England’s leading venue for producing and hosting international-quality exhibitions on human cultures and the natural world. The 421m2 space will be a new home for blockbuster and international shows, drawing visitors from across the North of England who previously would have had to travel to London to see shows of such scale.

• The North of England’s first large-scale gallery of South Asian history and culture, created in partnership with the British Museum, bringing together the very best of Manchester Museum’s own South Asian collections and world-class sculpture, textiles and artefacts from the British Museum. It will be the UK’s first permanent gallery to explore the stories, experiences and contributions of diaspora communities. At the heart of the gallery will be a unique performance space, dedicated to showing the very best live music, dance and performance from and inspired by South Asia.

• A new Oxford Road-facing entrance, welcome area and shop, to create a more visible and welcoming first impression. Throughout, particular emphasis will be placed on accessible design for older visitors and people with a disability.

• Underpinning the transformation, there will be a dynamic co-created participatory programme to imaginatively address some of the key issues of our time; climate change, ageing, migration and belonging. This will extend the museum’s award-winning volunteering work and be pivotal to changing how we work with and reach new audiences.

News of HLF support marks the second major commitment towards this £12.7 million scheme, following a Treasury announcement of £5million towards the South Asia Gallery in November 2015.

The museum predicts hundreds of thousands of new visitors, including an additional 11,000 school children each year.

Esme Ward, Director of Manchester Museum said: “With new world-class spaces for extraordinary objects and stories, more volunteering opportunities and imaginative partnerships, Manchester Museum will reflect and explore the needs, interests and opportunities of the diverse communities we serve. The project will develop and transform the museum to bring more wonder and inspiration from around the world to the people of Greater Manchester and beyond ‘

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “As Mayor I’ve pledged to support our thriving cultural institutions across Greater Manchester. We must continue to invest in our cultural facilities, not only to attract new visitors from the UK and beyond, but for the benefit of people across our city-region. Manchester Museum acts as a community hub and through this Heritage Lottery funding this inclusive museum is able to expand and continue to provide opportunities for all communities across Greater Manchester.”

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “The Museum brings hundreds of thousands of people to our campus each year for both education and enjoyment. I am very pleased that this funding will now allow the Museum to build on this excellent work and create new spaces which will help attract new audiences and offer an even greater range of thought -provoking exhibitions.”

An ambitious, world-class cancer research facility is to be built at The Christie on the site of the Paterson building which suffered devastating fire damage in April 2017 displacing over 300 scientists and support staff.

It will integrate researchers and clinicians in a new state-of-the-art building, who will develop new ways to conduct team science approaches to accelerate the translation and adoption of research into the clinic.

This approach will ensure that Manchester remains at the international forefront of research in this field - understanding and tackling the diversity and complexity of cancer to drive better outcomes for patients with the very latest discoveries and breakthroughs.

The multi-million pound development will be led by The Christie on behalf of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC), an internationally renowned and hugely successful partnership between The Christie, The University of Manchester and Cancer Research UK.

The partners believe this exciting development embraces a great opportunity to transform the disaster of the Paterson building fire into a bold and exciting future. Detailed work to secure necessary formal approvals will be undertaken over the coming months.

In addition to housing the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, the new development will be a major step forward in realising MCRC’s ambition of becoming one of the world’s top five centres for basic, translational and clinical cancer research.

Manchester is already a world scientific lead in cancer biomarkers, the molecular targeting of cancer, early-phase clinical trials and cutting-edge radiotherapy, including the opening of one of only two NHS high energy proton beam therapy centres in the UK later this year.

The new building will also harness the potential of healthcare research within a catchment area of three million people as part of the Greater Manchester Cancer plan (part of the health care devolution project in Greater Manchester) and Health Innovation Manchester.

Roger Spencer, Chief Executive of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a hugely exciting time for The Christie. We have an opportunity to create a truly unique research centre integrated within the hospital with scientists, researchers and consultants all working together in one place, developing and shaping treatment and research from basic scientific discoveries through to patient care. It will ensure our patients receive access to the latest personalised and innovative cancer treatments alongside world-class clinical and scientific expertise.”

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “The University already has a leading position in cancer research and a unique partnership with The Christie and Cancer Research UK. We are excited and proud to contribute our world-leading expertise to ensuring that Manchester is a global powerhouse of discovery research and treatment. The new building will be transformative and will be a magnet for attracting international researchers and building partnerships with other academic institutions and the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry.”

Cancer Research UK Chief Executive, Sir Harpal Kumar, said: “Manchester researchers and scientists in our Institute and Centre have faced a tough 11 months following the devastating fire. But we are now delighted to announce proposals to build this state-of-the-art facility which will create exciting opportunities for breakthroughs and future discoveries in cancer research. We look forward to working with our partners to develop a unique space which will allow even closer collaboration and will become a world renowned centre of excellence.”

Professor Rob Bristow, Director of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre, explains: “This new international hub for translational research will allow the development of cancer research teams that focus their efforts to directly impact the patient. I came from Toronto to Manchester to help develop these teams whereby clinicians, researchers and patients could work together to drive the personalised approach to cancer medicine leading to the most innovative cancer clinical trials. This new build is a manifestation of Manchester’s ambition to create the next wave of incredible research to better prevent, diagnose and treat cancer with the highest calibre of basic and translational science.”

Professor Richard Marais, Director of the CRUK Manchester Institute, said: “I am delighted that the new building will house the CRUK Manchester Institute. Our world leading scientists are working to understand cancer biology and the discoveries they make will drive development of the diagnostic tests and cancer treatments of the future. The new building will bring these scientists together with cancer patients and the doctors, nurses and other clinical staff who are treating them. This will generate a creative environment in which cutting edge discoveries are rapidly translated into clinical practice, resulting in improved treatments for cancer patients.”

Detailed planning for the building is underway with a goal for completion in early 2021.

Cancer

Cancer is one of The University of Manchester’s research beacons - examples of pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet. #ResearchBeacons

Led by The University of Manchester and delivered by the Growth Company, The Works helps support local people to find jobs, develop skills and access training and is now celebrating placing the 4,000^th person into employment.

David Seville, who is 47 and from Middleton, had been unemployed for 13 years when he was referred to The University of Manchester Construction Academy which operates from The Works.

David had worked in construction before, but recognised that he needed to update his skills and obtain the appropriate accreditation.

David completed the two-week Academy, and was offered a four-week work experience placement with Balfour Beatty as a Public Safety Officer. David impressed Balfour Beatty and at the end of his work placement was offered a full-time job. Since then David has been nominated for, and won, a Quality Management Award.

He is now employed full-time by Balfour Beatty on the Manchester Engineering Campus Development, the largest single development ever undertaken by the University and the cornerstone of its Campus Masterplan. When completed, it will be one of the biggest buildings in UK higher education history.

David said: “Being unemployed for 13 years made me a recluse. Having this job has made me more active, more sociable, and I am really enthusiastic about my future.

“It’s been better than anything I have ever done before, and it’s led me into full-time secure employment, which means I can save, and make plans. My life is finally back on track.”

The University’s Assistant Director of Human Resources, Steven Grant was instrumental in setting up The Works, and was awarded an MBE in the 2017 New Year Honours List for services to unemployed people in Greater Manchester.

Steve said: “David is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when an individual, even someone who has been unemployed for a very long period, is given the right support to enable them to move in to work and forward in their lives.

“We established The Works in 2011 so that we could have a direct influence on programmes designed to have a positive impact on communities closest to us which suffer high levels of unemployment. Six years later the Works attracts jobseekers from across Greater Manchester and its success evidences the need to have employers leading the skills agenda working in partnership with training providers such as the Growth Company.

“The University is committed to ensuring that Greater Manchester residents benefit from the skills development and employment opportunities the expansion of our campus will provide. Raising skill levels and delivering sustainable job opportunities enhances the lives of individuals, families and communities and contributes to a strong regional and national economy.”

Andrea Holt, Social Sustainability Advisor with Balfour Beatty said: “I am sure that if we hadn’t engaged with The Works David would not be working with us today. He has proved to be a great asset to the team delivering the MECD project for the university. Within months of joining us David was nominated for and won an award and I am sure that his career will go from strength to strength.

“We are committed to working with the University to ensure that we are able to maximise training and employment opportunities for people from across Greater Manchester.”

Construction work has begun on the Manchester hub for the Henry Royce Institute, the national body promoting research and applications in advanced materials. The building will be a prominent new landmark on the Manchester skyline at 46 metres high.

Based at the heart of The University of Manchester’s campus, the Henry Royce Institute for materials science research and innovation will bring together world-leading academics from across the UK to work closely with industry to ensure commercialisation of fundamental research. The development will house state-of-the-art equipment and provide collaborative space for industrial engagement, and is a key part of the University’s ten-year Campus Masterplan to create world-class facilities in Manchester.

The new facility will be based at The University of Manchester to provide a research focus for the Royce’s founding partners, including The University of Sheffield; The University of Oxford; University of Liverpool; University of Leeds; University of Cambridge; Imperial College London; the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA); and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL).

The Manchester building will enable a wide array of ground-breaking research to be undertaken including investigations into biomedical materials which are at the cutting-edge of regenerative medicine and prosthetics; nuclear materials to support the energy sector; materials systems for demanding environments; and 2D materials which, for example, can be used in inks for printable electronics, enhanced composites, in fuel cells and super capacitators which outperform traditional batteries.

“This new flagship building will be a national beacon of research excellence in advanced materials - not only providing a centre for scientists and engineers to lead on cutting-edge research but will also help businesses to apply this new knowledge into technologies for commercial use,” said Regius Professor of Materials at The University of Manchester, Phil Withers, Chief Scientist for the Royce. He added: “Importantly, this hub facility will be a meeting place where colleagues can gather from across the UK and beyond to share their ideas and innovative thinking.”

President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, said: “Building upon The University of Manchester’s already outstanding reputation for scientific research, the Royce will enable the UK to grow its world-leading research and innovation base in advanced materials science and technology. It is a great addition to our campus.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at the University, added: “This is one of our major capital projects forming an important part of our vision for the campus and will benefit from its location, close to the National Graphene Institute and the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre.”

This development is a central pillar in the Government’s Industrial Strategy and creation of the Northern Powerhouse. The ‘Powerhouse 2050: the North’s Routemap for Productivity’ report published by the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, a group of businesses, organisations and leaders headed by George Osborne, underlines the pivotal role of the Royce in its potential to integrate collective strengths across the North to create a centre of excellence upon which companies and researchers will be able to capitalise on.

The University of Manchester appointed Arcadis to lead the delivery of the £105 million building, which is being funded by the Government. NBBJ, an international architectural practice, have worked with the civil and structural engineer Ramboll and the building services engineer Arup to create a world-class building design. This building will be delivered by Laing O’Rourke, the appointed main contractor. The Royce hub is expected to be completed and the building fully operational by early 2020.

Jodrell Bank has been awarded £4m in the Autumn Statement to go towards a new project to promote the historical importance of the scientific work undertaken at the Cheshire site.

Subject to the approval of a business plan, the £4m completes the fundraising for the £20.5m ‘First Light’ project which combines a celebration of scientific heritage with an enhanced educational programme. The development will include construction of a new gallery, incorporating a spectacular exhibition and immersive auditorium.

‘First Light’ is supported by an offer of £12M from the Heritage Lottery Fund, with generous support from the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Wolfson Foundation, the Denise Coates Foundation, the University of Manchester Alumni and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre currently attracts around 185,000 visitors each year, including 26,000 school pupils on educational visits. The new project is expected to increase the overall visitor numbers to 250,000, and reach an additional 6,000 school pupils each year.

The new facility will help people learn more about the history of the Observatory at Jodrell Bank, including its pivotal role in the development of radio astronomy, its work in space tracking and its contribution to defence during the cold war.

The site was recently selected as the UK’s next candidate for nomination to UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and has numerous listed structures, including the Grade I listed Lovell and Mark II telescopes.

Building on this proud history, the astronomers at Jodrell Bank, part of The University of Manchester’s School of Physics & Astronomy, currently operate e-MERLIN, the UK’s national facility for radio astronomy, and the site hosts the international headquarters of the upcoming Square Kilometre Array.

Professor Teresa Anderson, Director of the Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre said: “This is fantastic news and provides the final piece in the jigsaw to enable us to move ahead with this very exciting project. We are very grateful to all our funders for their support and are looking forward to creating something very special to celebrate the history of this unique place.

“I’d like to place on record my thanks to David Rutley MP who has been tireless in his support for our plans.”

Mr Rutley added: “I am delighted that the Chancellor has responded so positively to the request for funding for Jodrell Bank’s ‘First Light’ heritage gallery. This is a significant boost to the project and will make a huge difference in enabling this world-leading and iconic site to promote its history and inspire the next generation of scientists. I am very grateful to Professor Anderson and her colleagues for their outstanding hard work to get the project to this stage, and look forward to seeing this great initiative come to fruition.”

Contract represents one of the largest capital developments ever undertaken by a UK higher education institution.

The University of Manchester has today announced that the £287 million contract to construct the Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) has been formally awarded to Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group.

The four-year project forms an essential part of The University of Manchester’s ten-year Campus Masterplan to create a world-class estate benefitting staff, students and visitors.

This will support the University’s strategic goals of creating world-class research, providing an outstanding learning environment and student experience and social responsibility.MECD will provide a state-of-the-art facility, housing the University’s engineering schools, innovative teaching spaces and research institutes such as the Dalton Nuclear Institute and the BP- International Centre for Advanced Materials (BP-ICAM).

It will consolidate the majority of the University’s estate onto one main campus, creating a more compact and coherent infrastructure that reduces the institution’s carbon footprint and costs. MECD will also free up considerable land holdings in the north of the campus, contributing to the future economic success of the city with redevelopment opportunities in a prime city centre location.

Upon completion, the facility will benefit from ‘green’ construction techniques resulting in smart energy consumption and advanced water recycling and waste systems. The development will host a wide range of flexible hi-specification laboratories and lecture spaces to welcome up to 7,000 students and 1,300 staff. MECD will also incorporate blended learning facilities, workshops and a ‘maker space’ where students will see their engineering creations come to life.

At peak construction, the project will employ a workforce of 1,000, including multiple apprenticeships and graduate placements. The project will also create new job opportunities for unemployed local people through the University’s Construction Academy, which provides local residents with exposure to career opportunities in the construction sector. The project team will maximise the use of off-site manufacture and the latest in BIM technology to optimise construction efficiency and deliver a smart facility of the highest standard.

Dean Banks, Balfour Beatty Managing Director, UK Construction Services, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to construct the MECD, one of the largest single developments ever undertaken by a higher education institution in the UK.

“We have extensive expertise in the higher education sector having delivered schemes such as the Holyrood postgraduate village at the University of Edinburgh, The Diamond building for the Engineering Faculty for the University of Sheffield, and the Foundry Courtyard Student Accommodation Complex in Glasgow. Our longstanding expertise enables us to provide The University of Manchester, its staff and students with an iconic campus, in addition to delivering multiple benefits to local communities including job generation and apprenticeship opportunities.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates at The University of Manchester, said: “The Manchester Engineering Campus Development will be a world-leading centre for learning and research. This development is central to the University’s ten-year Campus Masterplan which is creating an exceptional environment for our exceptional people. We are providing state-of-the-art facilities that will rival those of our international competitors and help attract world-class academic talent to the institution."

Balfour Beatty was appointed to the University’s Construction Partnering Framework in May 2015 and has been working under a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) since November 2015, enabling design development and early engagement with key supply chain partners.

The city has paid tribute to the enormous contribution The University of Manchester has made to sport, by giving it the 'Outstanding contribution to sport' accolade at its most prestigious award ceremony.

The award was given at the climax of a glittering ceremony at the annual Manchester Sport Awards, in recognition of years of work in the city by the University.

The Sport team were praised by the evening’s host, 400 metre record holder Iwan Thomas who listed the University’s achievements, including the almost 2,500 staff and students who donned the purple shirt in this year’s Great Manchester Run.

The runners raised tens of thousands of pounds for scholarships and good causes which change lives and communities in Manchester and around the world.

These included the Equity and Merit Scholarships which provide funding for talented students from countries in Africa and the Big Change, a project to help end homelessness in Manchester.

Also applauded was the recent opening of the UK’s largest University all-weather pitch facilities; Manchester is the first university in the country to deliver a project with 6 all-weather pitches on one site.

The project at the Armitage Sports Ground enabled a £13m regeneration project to take place at Belle Vue Sports Village with the creation of the National Basketball Performance centre and the National Speedway Stadium, which also included two new All Weather pitches.

The ceremony also acknowledged the 855 students engaged in the Sport Volunteering Scheme, 175 athletes supported through the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme and the nearly 17,000 students and staff who regularly engage in University sport programmes.

The awards celebrate the achievements of clubs, coaches, volunteers, unsung heroes, athletes, schools and community groups that in Manchester.

Head of Sport Vicky Ackerley accepted the award on behalf of the University from Cllr Luthfur Rahman and Cllr Emily Rowles.

She said: “This is a great honour and a fabulous recognition of the brilliant students and staff who put so much into our sporting life at the University.

“I’d also like to pay tribute to my fabulous team who work tirelessly to make sport accessible for all.

“We passionately believe that sport has enormous benefits to everyone and everyone’s physical and mental health. It really can transform lives.”

Alliance Manchester Business School has been awarded £9.7 million by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).

The grant, announced by Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson, has been awarded through the HEFCE-managed UK Research Partnership Investment fund (UKRPIF), which supports higher education research to attract investment, and to strengthen the contribution of research to the economy.

The award adds to £23 million of private investment towards the transformational capital redevelopment of Alliance Manchester Business School to create a world-class business and management research centre of excellence for the North.

Professor Fiona Devine, Head of Alliance Manchester Business School said: “It is testament to our research strength that HEFCE has identified Alliance Manchester Business School as a driver for economic and inclusive growth in the region.

This is one of nine projects announced as part of the current round of UKRPIF funding. David Sweeney, HEFCE’s Director of Research, Education and Knowledge Exchange and Chief Executive Designate of Research England, said: “I am delighted that we are able to support these nine projects that will deliver high class facilities and world leading research, enabling UK universities to continue to tackle major national and global challenges, and make a significant contribution to economic growth”.

Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson added: "The UK's world-renowned leadership in science, research and innovation is helping to solve a range of national and global challenges, and the breadth of the projects funded today means this will continue.

"Through our Industrial Strategy and £4.7 billion investment for research and development, we're ensuring we capitalise on the great work taking place in universities across the UK and remain at the forefront of innovation."

The £84 million redevelopment of Alliance Manchester Business School is part of The University of Manchester’s £1billion Campus Masterplan. The landmark refurbishment of the UK’s largest business school will deliver state-of-the-art facilities to the campus including a new Learning Resources Centre, Data Analytics Visualisation Lab and a Behavioural Economics and Strategic Management Laboratory.

Bruntwood and The University of Manchester have today announced that the Co-op, Loungers, and Five Guys will be joining the line-up at the recently launched University Green, which forms part of the University’s £1 billion Campus Masterplan and redevelopment.

Informal restaurant and bar chain, Loungers, will occupy a 3,175 sq ft unit. Designed by their in-house team, the interior will include Loungers’ inviting and eccentric use of reclaimed antique furniture and fittings. The neighbourhood style café and bar will be open day and night all week long, providing a space where family and friends can get a morning coffee, meal or evening drinks, all within a relaxed environment. There will be space for 120 covers.

Continuing their UK expansion, authentic American burger brand, Five Guys, will open a 3,175 sq ft ground floor restaurant, its first at Corridor Manchester. Designed by Blacksheep, the restaurant will reflect the brand’s iconic red and white branding, offering a traditional American diner experience. The restaurant will provide Five Guys’ popular menu of burgers, hot dogs, fries and shakes, with space for more than 88 covers.

In addition, Co-op Food will take a 4,656 sq ft unit, featuring the new company branding being rolled out across the UK. The new store will have an in-store bakery, locally sourced products and a focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas and essentials. Students who hold a NUS extra card can also enjoy a 10% discount off their groceries at the store.

All sites are due to open in summer 2018, shortly after completion of the scheme.

Commenting on the new signings, James Tootle, Retail Surveyor at Bruntwood, said: “We are so pleased to secure such well known, popular brands at University Green. These new additions reflect our desire to provide an exciting retail and leisure line-up, and we have no doubt they will be well received by the diverse population we have on Oxford Road.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester, added: “This string of recent signings show the strength and belief in the future success of the development. University Green will certainly enhance the dining offer for the University and surrounding area, and provide sociable spaces and greater choice for students, staff and local residents.”

University Green is sited in a key growth area within Corridor Manchester due to its proximity to major institutions, research facilities and technological and cultural assets including Manchester Science Partnerships and the University’s Alliance Manchester Business School on Oxford Road. When complete next year the scheme will provide 40,000 sq ft of retail and leisure space across 12 units each with double-height glazed frontages.

This news follows the first wave of signings including a new location for long-standing local bookshop, Blackwell’s, and the award-winning artisan coffee house, Takk. A total of six units are now exchanged, over half of the scheme, with another under offer and interest being expressed for the remaining five.

Metis Real Estate Advisors represented Bruntwood. Insight Retail and Bradys acted for Loungers and Co-op respectively. Five Guys represented themselves.

Find out more about the University of Manchester’s Campus Masterplan – a £1 billion investment over ten years to create an inspiring and progressive environment, designed for the 21st Century.

Bruntwood and The University of Manchester have today announced the first retail and leisure signings at the recently launched University Green, which forms part of the University’s £1 billion Campus Masterplan and redevelopment.

University Green is sited in a key growth area within Corridor Manchester due to its proximity to major institutions, research facilities and technological and cultural assets including Manchester Science Partnerships and the University’s Alliance Manchester Business School on Oxford Road. When complete next year the scheme will provide 40,000 sq ft of retail and leisure space across 12 units each with double-height glazed frontages.

Academic and general bookshop Blackwell’s is the first retail brand to be confirmed for University Green, taking a 6,300 sq ft store.

Second up is Manchester’s award-winning artisan coffee house, Takk, which will be opening its second site in the city. The 1,500 sq ft café will provide exceptional coffee alongside a breakfast, brunch and bespoke craft beer offer. Takk will be collaborating with the Sheila Bird Group to create a thoughtful design, responding to its unique location and customer experience. Influenced by the owners’ passion for Nordic design, the new site aims to create a beautiful and welcoming space where people can relax and work.

Completing the first wave of signings is a new 2,500 sq ft Pret A Manger. All three will open in Summer 2018 shortly after completion of the scheme.

Commenting on the first signings, Toby Sproll, Head of Retail and Leisure at Bruntwood, said: “We are thrilled to have secured such quality operators and retailers as part of the first wave of signings for University Green. Our focus is to create an exciting mix of retail and leisure for the significant population that study, work and live in Corridor Manchester.”

Phillip Hannaway, co-owner of Takk commented: “We could not be more excited to be opening on the re-developed campus and have the opportunity to bring our passion for incredible coffee and food to a new community. From the design side of things we want to create something completely different to our Northern Quarter site, University Green is going to be an incredible space.”

Dean Drew, Sales and Marketing Director at Blackwell’s added: “To be able to re-launch our shop in the heart of Corridor Manchester is a great opportunity. We have been providing books to students and the Manchester community since 1991 and are delighted to continue this longstanding relationship with the city and the University. We’ll provide a modern multi-channel space for our customers to enjoy.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at The University of Manchester, also said: “It is very exciting to have the first brands signed up and to see the University’s Campus Masterplan vision take shape. This landmark development in Manchester will highlight Corridor Manchester as an extension to the city.”

Bruntwood and The University of Manchester’s £50 million Oxford Road regeneration project also includes public realm improvements alongside the newly enhanced and extended 350,000 sq ft Alliance Manchester Business School. Complementing the redevelopment of University Green will be a 210-bed Crowne Plaza Hotel and 116-room Staybridge Suites, both opening at the end of 2017. Over 60,000 people are currently employed in the area and this is expected to grow to over 75,000 by 2020.

Metis Real Estate Advisors represented Bruntwood. Takk and Pret A Manger represented themselves. SP Associates represented Blackwell’s.

This is the first look at the £150m Manchester Building of the Henry Royce Institute – the UK’s leading centre for advanced materials research and commercialisation.

Located at the heart of the University of Manchester’s Engineering Campus, the 16,000 square metre building will house world-leading materials scientists, state-of-the-art equipment and collaborative space for industrial and academic engagement.

Set to open in 2019, it is believed that, at 46 metres high, the Royce building will be the tallest on the University of Manchester campus.

It will be located next to the Alan Turing Building on Upper Brook Street, in close proximity to the Schools of Physics and Chemistry, as well as the £61m National Graphene Institute (NGI) and the £350m Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD), which is currently under construction.

The £235m Royce Institute is a hub and spoke model, with the hub at The University of Manchester and spokes at the founding partners: the universities of Sheffield, Leeds, Liverpool, Cambridge, Oxford and Imperial College London, as well as the Culham Centre for Fusion Energy (CCFE) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL).

The Royce will enable the UK to grow its world-leading research and innovation base in advanced materials technology that underpins all industrial sectors.

Research and industrial collaboration at The Royce is initially focussed on nine core areas, with The University of Manchester championing four of these; Two-dimensional Materials, Materials for Demanding Environments, Nuclear Materials and Biomedical Systems and Devices. The nine-storey building, designed by architects NBBJ, will contain state of the art equipment supporting these four core areas.

The building design is intended to allow ‘Science on Show’ – areas of the building visible to engage people outside – while also providing closed, confidential spaces for commercially sensitive research.

The University has embarked on an ambitious ten-year, £1bn masterplan to transform its campus and deliver world-class facilities for staff, students and visitors. This includes the NGI, which opened last year, and the £60m Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC), which is currently under construction.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “The Henry Royce Institute building will be a stunning addition to The University of Manchester campus, and will become a focal point for the UK’s research and commercialisation in advanced materials.”

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at the University, said: ”This is one of our major capital projects and forms an important part of our vision for the campus and will benefit from its location, close to the NGI and GEIC.”

The Project and Cost Managers are Arcadis, and Ramboll are the Civil & Structural Engineers. Both companies also completed the NGI and are working on the GEIC, while Arup, the Building Services Engineers, are also currently working on MECD. The preferred contractors, Laing O’Rourke, are also working on GEIC.

The University of Manchester has unveiled plans to create a parkland at the heart of its campus to benefit staff, students, visitors and the local community.

Brunswick Street will be extensively landscaped creating Brunswick Park, the largest green space on the campus with the proposals including tree planting, wildflower planting, seating areas, pedestrian and cycle paths.

The opportunity to develop a large area of green public realm has been presented by the Cross City bus corridor works to Oxford Road which will close the western end of Brunswick Street to vehicles later this year meaning the route will no longer be used by through traffic.

The street, which is lined on both sides by University buildings, is a hub for staff and students but will remain a public pedestrian and cycle route with improved pathways providing a better connection between Oxford Road and Upper Brook Street and forming an important gateway to the campus.

As well as providing spaces for meeting, relaxation and contemplation, the proposals would create a central space for large-scale campus events such as graduation and Welcome Week. Its prime location also provides an impressive setting for the University’s historic buildings along Oxford Road including the Whitworth Hall and the Queen’s Arch.

Consultation has taken place with Manchester City Council and the Brunswick ward whilst drawing up the proposals. Further community based consultation will be taking place in the near future.

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates and Facilities at the University, said: “The University is transforming the campus through its £1 billion Campus Masterplan and that includes a commitment to environmental sustainability by improving our green spaces and public realm. These proposals form a centrepiece of our vision and will create a heart of the University campus for staff, students, visitors and the local community to enjoy.”

Brunswick Park is one of many schemes the University is undertaking to `green’ the campus. The Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) development, which will re-invigorate this part of the University’s North Campus around the site of the Faraday building, will include a Pocket Park and a new landscaping scheme promoting biodiversity and improving access.

Landscaping is being incorporated across all of the major new build capital projects which are being developed as part of the Campus Masterplan. Inevitably there will be a loss of trees in some areas to make way for these, however there are opportunities to introduce significant planting in other areas, such as Brunswick Park, which will see an overall increase in planting across the campus.

Work on the Brunswick Park scheme is expected to start later this year, subject to obtaining the necessary planning consents.

The uniquely designed institute is fundamentally important to continue the world-class graphene research started in Manchester. Our researchers and scientists will be able to collaborate with colleagues from other universities and from some of the world' leading companies, to accelerate the commercialisation of graphene applications.

The British Construction Industry Awards award outstanding achievement in the construction of buildings, taking into account architectural and engineering design, as well as considering the details of the construction process.

The NGI held off strong competition from six other shortlisted schemes including the Weston Library for Oxford University, Five Pancras Square at Kings Cross and the Brooks Building for Manchester Metropolitan University.

The building also won the BIM (Building Information Modelling) Application Award for the extensive use of modelling software required to map out the NGI's extensive mechanical and engineering services.

The NGI was delivered by the University’s Directorate of Estates and Facilities, designed by architectsJestico + Whiles and built by BAM Construction.

Speaking at the NGI official opening in March, President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell said: “This state-of-the-art institute is an incredible asset, not only to this University and to Manchester but also to the UK. The National Graphene Institute is fundamental to continuing the world-class graphene research which was started in Manchester.”

The University of Manchester has announced that it is to invest £350 million to create a new engineering campus.

The Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) will be one of the largest, single construction projects ever undertaken by a higher education institution in the United Kingdom and will transform the way in which the University educates future engineers in response to the needs of the fast-changing global economy.

The build – due to open in 2020 – is part of the University’s campus master plan 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 of Manchester site and the city and will be located opposite the new National Graphene Institute on Booth Street East.

Mecanoo, the architects behind HOME – a new centre for international contemporary art, theatre and film in Manchester – have been appointed to the project and tasked to build a campus which will open its doors to the public and reinforce Manchester’s status as a city of science. The new campus will be a destination where world-changing engineering and applied science is on display and visible to all.

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’ Institute in 1824.

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

Once complete, the Manchester Engineering Campus Development will become home to the University’s four engineering schools 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.

The MECD project is being delivered through the Construction Partnering Framework. Balfour Beatty is one of the framework partners appointed in June and the University has begun an engagement process with Balfour Beatty as its construction partner on the scheme. Demolition of the former Grosvenor Halls of Residence has already begun and will conclude during the first half of 2016.

The University of Manchester is inviting local residents, businesses and stakeholders the opportunity to attend an exhibition of plans for the new engineering campus. The drop-in session will be held on Thursday, 10 September, at the James Chadwick Building, 4^th floor, EBL Room 6 from 3-7pm.

Ket statistics:

• Costs more than £350 million
• The floor space will be more than 78,000m² (or 11 football pitches)
• 1,300 academics, researchers and support staff will move to the new campus
• 6,750 students will be based at the new site

This is the first look at the new £60m Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) at The University of Manchester, which will set the standard for world class graphene and 2-D materials application development.The GEIC aims to accelerate taking graphene products to the marketplace, as well as be a state of the art research and technology development facility.
 
Along with the £61m National Graphene Institute (NGI), which opened in 2015, and the £235m Sir Henry Royce Institute for Materials Research and Innovation, the GEIC will be crucial in maintaining the UK’s world leading position in graphene and other 2-D materials research. 

Whereas the NGI features academic-led research in partnership with industry, the GEIC will be industry-led and will focus on innovation and applications.

Situated on the North Campus of The University of Manchester, the building, which has been designed by world-renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, is around 8,400 square metres. It will initially focus on a number of the University’s world-class graphene application areas:  energy, composites, formulations and coatings, electronics and membranes.

It will also have pilot production facilities and characterisation for the industrial scale-up of graphene, as well as develop graphene and 2D materials applications. It is set to be completed in 2017.

The University has more than 230 researchers working on graphene research across a wide breadth of disciplines and subjects. The NGI, GEIC and Sir Henry Royce Institute will be positioned in the heart of the city, cementing Manchester as the home of graphene with unrivalled expertise.

Professor Colin Bailey, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “The University of Manchester leads the world in graphene research and is one of the most significant centres of commercialisation of the material. The GEIC will be crucial to take graphene to the market and address issues such as scale-up and infrastructure.

“Alongside the University’s existing world-class facilities in graphene and Advanced Materials, the GEIC is essential to maintain the UK’s international leadership position in this area and ensure effective commercialisation of a UK discovery.”

James Baker, Graphene Business Director, added: “This facility will be essential in continuing the world-class research and commercialisation that will start in the National Graphene Institute and mature into the GEIC.

“Researchers and industry will work together to address the challenges faced in graphene and other 2-D materials research, development and application in the UK”.

The GEIC will be partially funded by £15m from the Higher Education Funding Council England’s UK Research Partnership Investment Fund (UKRPIF), £5m from Innovate UK and £30m from Masdar; the Abu Dhabi based renewable energy company owned by Mubadala. The remaining £10m will be provided by other research funds and institutions.

The £235m Sir Henry Royce Institute for Materials Research and Innovation, will be based at The University of Manchester with facilities at the founding partners, comprising the universities of Sheffield, Leeds, Liverpool, Cambridge, Oxford and Imperial College London. The institute will focus on developing 14 key areas of materials research, of which graphene will be one, grouped into four themes: Energy, Engineering, Functional and Soft Materials.

The artist’s impressions can also be seen on the European City of Science website, which launched today, www.manchestersciencecity.com. Manchester has been awarded the prestigious designation of European City of Science, a first for the UK and recognition of the contribution that the city has made to scientific discovery and innovation in industry over the last 250 years.

The University of Manchester’s Whitworth art gallery, The National Graphene Institute, and the new building for the Manchester Cancer Research Centre are all in contention for the award, which is organised by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

The Manchester Cancer Research Centre is a partnership between the University, the Christie NHS Foundation Trust and Cancer Research UK.  The £28.5m University building opened in June and will house around 250 staff working on ground-breaking treatments for cancer – one of the major challenges identified by the University as a research beacon.

The National Graphene Institute was officially opened by Chancellor, George Osborne in March. It is the national centre for graphene research and will enable academics and industry to work side-by-side on the graphene applications of the future.  

The 7,825 square metre, five-storey building features cutting-edge facilities and equipment throughout to create a world-class research hub. Its 1,500 square metres of clean room space is the largest academic space of its kind in the world for dedicated graphene research.

The last of the three buildings is already shortlisted for the UK’s Stirling Prize and won the 2015 Museum of the Year.  The Whitworth’s success follows a £15m redevelopment which doubled the space, and installed an art garden, sculpture terrace and orchard garden – and a new cafe set high among the trees of Whitworth Park.

All three buildings will be in the running for the final prize due to be announced on 12 November, alongside the Soapworks in Salford, Link Building in Manchester and the redeveloped Victoria Station. The University’s John Rylands Library won the award in 2007.

Diana Hampson, the University’s Director of Estates, said: “We are delighted that all three of our most recent major projects have been shortlisted for this award.

“All three projects are very different and are the result of real collaboration and team work between Estates colleagues, design team, end users and contractors, delivering both excellent design and functionality.”

The new buildings are part of the University’s Campus Masterplan, a billion pound project to create a single world-class campus by 2022 It features new student facilities and buildings for teaching and research, and major improvements to the public realm.

Read more about these developments on the Campus Masterplan website.

Notes for editors

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Media enquiries to:
Jamie Brown
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Email: jamie.brown@manchester.ac.uk

The University of Manchester's redeveloped Whitworth art gallery has been awarded the Art Fund Prize for Museum of the Year 2015. The £100,000 prize is the largest arts award in Britain and the biggest museum prize in the world.

It follows record-breaking visitor figures to the gallery since its reopening in February after a £15 million transformation to create a 21st century gallery in the park.

In 2014 the Whitworth closed its doors in order to undertake the largest renovation in its 125-year history, which doubled its former size, with a new glass wing overlooking Whitworth Park proving to be a ‘magnet’ for visitors.

Other highlights of the revamped attraction include the galleries, housing exhibitions by Cornelia Parker and Cai Guo-Qiang, open corridors, work spaces, the reopened Victoria Grand Hall and the ‘cafe in the trees’.

Since its revamp the gallery has scooped a series of awards, including the North West Building of the Year from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

The latest accolade was presented to Whitworth Director Dr Maria Balshaw last night by novelist Ben Okri at a ceremony at the Tate Modern.

Dr Balshaw said that while the gallery was closed they took the Whitworth and its collections out into the city and used the time to consider more ambitious programmes.

She said: “We considered what sorts of collaborations could work at the Whitworth, between young people and our collections, say, or between artists and the academics we share a campus with. And we created an ambitious opening season of exhibitions and events that could only happen here at the Whitworth.

“That period of intensive work paid off. In the five months since our reopening, 200,000 people have enjoyed everything from Cornelia Parker’s collaboration with the Nobel Prize-winning scientist, Konstantin Novoselov – alongside her monumental new commission, War Room – to hip hop in the Grand Hall, t'ai chi in the art garden and an exhibition curated by older men from a local care home. In between, we’ve hosted ten critically-acclaimed exhibitions and witnessed a ‘takeover’ of the gallery by young people.

“What we have done this year is the culmination of all that we achieved in 2014. It has been a momentous period for the gallery – and winning this award is a wonderful way to say thank you to all those who made it possible, and to those visitors, old and new, who joined us on our journey.”
 

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “We are extremely proud of Maria and her team for this fantastic achievement which is testament to their passion for the University’s gallery. This award recognises our regional and national excellence.”

The Whitworth was chosen from a shortlist of six finalists: Dunham Massey (National Trust), Altrincham; IWM, London; The MAC, Belfast; Oxford University Museum of Natural History; and HM Tower of London.

Notes for editors

Media enquiries to:

Kath Paddison
Media Relations Officer
The University of Manchester
Tel: 0161 275 0790
Mob: 07990 550050
Email: kath.paddison@manchester.ac.uk

A new £28.5m research centre that will transform cancer treatment has opened in Manchester

The University of Manchester building in Withington will be home to researchers from the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC) – a partnership between Cancer Research UK, The University of Manchester and The Christie NHS Foundation Trust.

The state-of-the-art facility, located opposite The Christie and the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, is set to pull in more world-class scientists to the city, boosting research and helping to get improved treatments to patients faster.

Director of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre, Professor Nic Jones, said: “I am thrilled to see the building open as it looks absolutely fantastic.

“The new research centre will make a tremendous difference to the way cancer is treated in the future. The new facilities will allow us to progress personalised cancer treatments which will be the way forward for future generations diagnosed with the disease. We will know more about an individual patient’s disease characteristics which will help to lead directly to better treatments and outcomes.

“The new centre will ensure we provide outstanding opportunities and a vibrant environment for researchers, clinicians and external partners to work together towards our vision through a single-site 'bench to bedside' approach.

“I’ve always been extremely proud to work in Manchester which has such a strong legacy in cancer research. The new centre will attract world class scientists and help to save thousands of lives both here and around the world.”

Cancer remains one of the major healthcare challenges worldwide, in the UK and in the North West. In Greater Manchester alone, about 13,200 people are diagnosed with the disease every year – that’s 36 people affected every day.

The three Manchester Cancer Research Centre partners have been working closely together since 2006 and jointly funded the construction of the new facility which will provide greater opportunities to work collaboratively under the same roof.

The flagship building provides more than 6,000m² for expansion of research activity and has been designed to maximise the sharing of ideas and collaborations between scientists and clinicians. Cancer experts will be able to use a comprehensive array of new technologies and equipment within the new infrastructure. The building houses meeting rooms, laboratories, a lecture theatre and a café area for the public. It is set to provide space for around 250 staff.

The design also includes a rainwater harvesting system to collect rain runoff from roof areas, and to supply recycled water to the building.

The University of Manchester’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell said: “Cancer is one of the world’s most pressing health issues and as such the University has identified it as one of its key areas for research. This wonderful building is a significant milestone in meeting this challenge and will give our researchers new and better opportunities to develop treatments and, ultimately, save lives.”

Watch below for a video of the new building:

Amber Irvine, aged 11, from Ashton-Under-Lyne, helped to dig the first piece of ground for the foundations of the new building in 2012. She also helped to promote the “More Tomorrows” fundraising campaign which partly funded the cost of the new building.

Amber, who has three sisters, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in 2009.

It was initially thought Amber had a virus, but when she was eventually diagnosed with leukaemia doctors warned her mum Samantha that her daughter’s blood count had been so low that had she not been admitted to hospital, she would have died within the next 24 hours.

Amber started an immediate course of chemotherapy treatment while her family was living in Lincolnshire, but they moved to the North West to be close to Samantha’s mother shortly afterwards. Amber completed her two and a half years of treatment at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

Despite Amber being repeatedly admitted to hospital with infections, and having to face losing her hair twice, she made a good recovery.

The Broadoak Primary School pupil still needs regular check-ups, but has been clear from cancer for several years now.

Mum Samantha Irvine said: “A cancer diagnosis is a huge shock for anyone, but is devastating for a child and their family.

“We are delighted that Amber became so involved with the new research centre in Manchester. Without research, Amber might not be here today.

“It is amazing to think back to her digging the first piece of earth a few years ago and now this centre has been built which will change so many people’s lives.”

Notes for editors

An open day will be held in the new building on Saturday June 20. Members of the public are welcome to attend between 10am and 4pm.

Cancer is one of The University of Manchester’s research beacons - examples of pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet.

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For information on opportunities to undertake further study or research in this field, please visit the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences website.

Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne has officially opened the £61m National Graphene Institute (NGI) at The University of Manchester.

The Chancellor visited the recently completed institute today (Friday 20 March) and toured its state-of-the-art cleanrooms and laboratories with Nobel Laureate Professor Sir Kostya Novoselov.

The NGI is the national centre for graphene research and will enable academics and industry to work side-by-side on the graphene applications of the future.

More than 35 companies from across the world have already chosen to partner with The University of Manchester working on graphene-related projects.

The Government provided £38m for the construction of the Institute via the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), with the remaining £23m provided by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Mr Osborne said: “Backing science and innovation is a key part of building a Northern Powerhouse. The new National Graphene Institute at The University of Manchester will bring together leading academics, scientists and business leaders to help develop the applications of tomorrow, putting the UK in pole position to lead the world in graphene technology.”

One-atom thick graphene was first isolated and explored in 2004 at The University of Manchester. Its potential uses are vast but one of the first areas in which products are likely to be seen is in electronics.

The 7,825 square metre, five-storey building features cutting-edge facilities and equipment throughout to create a world-class research hub. The NGI’s 1,500 square metres of clean room space is the largest academic space of its kind in the world for dedicated graphene research.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester said: “The National Graphene Institute will be the world’s leading centre of graphene research and commercialisation.

“It will be the home of graphene scientists and engineers from across The University of Manchester working in collaboration with colleagues from many other universities and from some of the world’s leading companies.

“This state-of-the-art institute is an incredible asset, not only to this University and to Manchester but also to the UK. The National Graphene Institute is fundamental to continuing the world-class graphene research which was started in Manchester.”

The NGI is a significant first step in the vision to create a Graphene City® in Manchester. Set to open in 2017 the £60m Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) will complement the NGI and initiate further industry-led development in graphene applications with academic collaboration.

Last year the Chancellor also announced the creation of the £235m Sir Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials at The University of Manchester with satellite centres in Sheffield, Leeds, Cambridge, Oxford and London.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Professor Colin Bailey, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester said: “The opening of the National Graphene Institute today, complemented by the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre opening in 2017 and the future Sir Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials, will provide the UK with the facilities required to accelerate new materials to market.

“It will allow the UK to lead the way in the area which underpins all manufacturing sectors, resulting in significant inward investment, the stick-ability of innovation, and significant long-term job creation."

Notes for editors

• The National Graphene Institute (NGI) houses state-of-the-art cleanrooms plus, laser, optical, metrology and chemical labs and equipment.
• Over 200 researchers are currently working on graphene at The University of Manchester across a variety of interdisciplinary fields.
• The NGI was designed by Jestico + Whiles and built by BAM Construction.
• Graphene Week 2015 is set to take place at The University of Manchester 22-26 June.
• Manchester is the European City of Science for 2016.

Images are available on request from the press office.

For media enquiries contact:

Ben Robinson
Graphene Communications and Marketing Officer
The University of Manchester
0161 275 0134
07917 506158
ben.robinson@manchester.ac.uk

www.graphene.manchester.ac.uk

Twitter: @UoMGraphene

Visit our transformed art gallery from 14 February – and find out more via a number of BBC features.

We’re delighted to welcome back the University’s gallery in the park on Saturday, 14 February.

And to celebrate the gallery’s development – alongside ten opening exhibitions, new commissions indoors and out, and the remarkable achievements of MUMA (McInnes Usher McKnight Architects) – we’ve put together a Valentine weekend’s worth of art, music, talks, walks, performance, literature, family fun and a fire and light show.

Find out more about the weekend’s activities on the Whitworth website.

The Whitworth on the BBC

You can tune in to the following BBC programmes to hear more about the reopening of our gallery:

The Verb (broadcasting on 13 February, 10pm, BBC Radio 3) – guests include Cornelia Parker OBE.

Front Row (originally broadcast on 12 February, 7.15pm, BBC Radio 4) – the arts review show previews the Whitworth's reopening.

Reopening of the Whitworth Art Gallery (broadcasting on 15 February, 7am, BBC Radio 6) – Mary Anne Hobbs celebrates the reopening of Manchester's Whitworth Art Gallery with guests Professor Novoselov OBE and Cornelia.

You can also read more about the collaboration between Cornelia and Professor Novoselov in an interview on the BBC News website, or watch their appearance on BBC Breakfast via YouTube (from 2.02 onwards).