Work starts on Glyndŵr University’s new £2.4 million creative industries building
Work has started on a new £2.4 million facility at Glyndŵr University which will be used to train the future workforce for the creative industries.
The state-of-the-art building at the University’s Wrexham campus will bring together the different disciplines associated with the creative industries such as art and design, computing, theatre and performance and the humanities.
Through this combination it is hoped to bring innovative solutions to commercial problems as well as contributing to the growth of the creative industries in North East Wales. The centre will also contain new TV and radio production suites, building on the success of the University’s community radio station, Calon FM.
The facility will be a sustainable building for the 21st century, featuring photo-voltaic solar cells to provide for its energy usage and a rainwater harvesting system.
Professor Michael Scott, Vice-Chancellor of Glyndŵr University, said: “The Creative Industries building marks another exciting step for the University and its continued expansion.
“The creative industries are estimated to be worth as much as £85 billion to the UK economy by 2013 and the University will be in an outstanding position to contribute to this through this new centre once it is completed at the end of the year.
“In keeping with our vision, we will be able to provide highly-skilled graduates who are ready for industry and graduates who will be highly valuable to the economy of north east Wales – whether their area of expertise is art, broadcasting or computer game development.”
Construction firm ISG, who are carrying out the design and construction of the building, have integrated green measures throughout the new building. The firm estimates that solar panels on the building will provide enough energy to save the University up to £3,000 per year on electricity costs. Other low carbon initiatives will include a green sedum roof to help absorb C02 and rainwater, provide insulation for the building and create a habitat for wildlife.
Jim Parker, ISG’s regional director, commented: "The creative industries building is set to become a landmark development for the University, both in terms of overall sustainability and the quality and range of new facilities on offer to students. “Glyndŵr University has built up a great reputation for attracting high calibre students and undoubtedly this new building will play a key role in establishing the University as a true centre for excellence within the creative industries’ sector.”
The building is scheduled to open to students in early 2011.