Sheffield Hallam University has opened its new ‘”state-of-the-art” city campus to students.
The three new buildings on Howard Street – each named after local reservoirs – are the new homes for the teaching of business, social sciences, architecture, and law.
These subject areas were previously based in the university’s Collegiate Campus.
Vice-chancellor Professor Liz Mossop praised the new “world-class” facilities and returning students.
She said: “The new buildings provide state-of-the-art spaces for modern teaching and learning, as well as socialising and relaxing between studies.
“It is fantastic to see them so vibrant during Welcome Week, and the feedback from our students and staff so far has been outstanding.”
The £140m development has been criticised by Hallam UCU, who cited the cost of construction in a letter to its members their upcoming strike ballot. The current dispute is over potential cost-cutting redundancies.
A spokesperson for the university explained “the overall financial picture for universities likely to be challenging for some time, we must continue to make the difficult choices required to reduce costs and increase income”, adding they are seeking to avoid compulsory redundancies.
Professor Mossop added of the development that it will be “a huge asset for the University over many years to come” and provide “an outstanding offer for potential future students”.
“The development also provides a fantastic new gateway for Sheffield, including spaces everyone can use and enjoy alongside our staff and students.”
The Redmires building is now home to the departments of social sciences, architecture, and law, while Langsett is for the Sheffield Business School.
Dr Iain Garner, Executive Dean of the College of Social Sciences and Arts, said: “How inspiring to see these new buildings rise in the heart of our city. They give our students, colleagues, partners and communities a vibrant home to learn, innovate, challenge and create.”
Dr Sam Giove, Director of Sheffield Business School, added: “The building embodies our commitment to making a positive impact on the region and we look forward to building on our reputation as a high-quality business school developing responsible leaders of the future.”
Langsett features a trading floor and industry-standard Bloomberg software.
The new location for the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology, Strines, has its own immersive suite with augmented and virtual reality technology.
The development also includes sustainable heat pumps and solar panels., study spaces, two rooftop gardens, and a new outdoor public space called Hallam Green.
Hallam SU President Molly Pemberton called Hallam Green “a fantastic addition” and said it was “really exciting” to see the new buildings open.
“I am pleased to welcome not only new students to Hallam but also staff and students from Collegiate, to City Campus for the start of this new academic year,” Molly said.
“With a range of new social and study spaces, catering outlets, state-of-the-art facilities, and a focus on sustainability, it is great to see the University investing in the future for our students.”
Other refurbishments have taken place over the summer, including in the Owen Building’s Atrium and a new simulated hospital ward for health students on Collegiate Campus.
New simulated GP practices, mental health wards, art therapy studios and sport therapy treatment spaces are also planned for Collegiate Campus.
The official opening ceremony for the new city campus buildings will take place later this year.
Featured image via Sheffield Hallam University
