University of Bedfordshire announces plans for new £40m block in Luton

If UoB gains planning permissiong the block would be built on Park Street and would be devoted to teaching and research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The university has drawn up plans for a four-storey complex planned for completion in 2018.

Vice chancellor Bill Rammell said: “This is part of the University’s wider vision for high-level skills growth in Luton and Bedfordshire.

“Our new STEM building will support the ambitions of regional policymakers to enhance the skills base in Luton, extending opportunity for local residents and attracting investment to the region.

“This is part of an investment of £180m in cutting edge facilities by the University to transform our campuses.”

If built, the STEM building would give the university room to offer new courses in pharmacy, nutrition, physics, biochemistry, chemistry, geology and mechanical engineering.

The announcement comes as UoB completes its new £46m library – which has 7,400sq metres of space over nine floors.

It is set to be ready for students arriving at the university in autumn.

Mr Rammell added: “The new STEM building is part of our commitment to ensure we provide the very best facilities to support our students throughout their studies.

“It marks the culmination of a huge investment at the campus, with the aim to give our students the very best learning teaching experience possible.”