Green light for St Luke’s refurbishment project

A major refurbishment project at the University of Exeter medical school will begin later this month after being granted funding and planning permission. 

The work expected to cost over £10.5 million will improve on facilities at the University’s St Luke’s Campus by providing more space for teaching and student study.

The work will also see an extra storey added to the current South Cloisters building as well as a new four storey extension constructed.

Hugh McCann, Director of Estate Development at the University of Exeter, said: “This is an extremely exciting project, which demonstrates the University’s ongoing commitment to providing the best possible student experience at St Luke’s.

“We will work closely alongside Midas, Campus users and local residents to ensure we keep everyone informed and minimise disruption. This significant investment will prove a real asset to all activities across the Campus.”

Professor Steve Thornton, Dean of the University of Exeter Medical School also welcomed the news, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted that this refurbishment will soon be under way.

“It will help to accommodate our plans for growth and will provide a modern facility for medical research and for teaching and learning across all Colleges.”

The work, to be carried out by Local contractor, Midas Construction,
is set to begin later this month and be completed by the Autumn term 2015.

Alan Hope, Chief Executive for Midas Group, said: “We are delighted to be Exeter University’s preferred contractor to develop the St Luke’s Campus site.

“As a company based in Exeter it is fantastic to be part of the University’s expansion plans, it is also good news for local employment and sub-contractors in the area.”

The research areas are expected to open in February 2015, and the new teaching space, in the four storey extension, is scheduled to open in September 2015.

Parking at St Luke’s will not be affected by the works. Cloisters Café will remain open and games will continue as usual on the lawn.

Photography © Copyright Eugene Birchall and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.