PROPOSALS to demolish an ‘unfit for purpose’ block at Arts University Bournemouth and replace it with a fine arts building twice the size have been submitted.
Officials at the art, performance, design, and media university at Fern Barrow want to replace the 22-year-old 900sqm North Lights Studios building with a new modern 1,800sqm block which planners say will “raise the profile of fine arts within the university community”.
The existing building was constructed in 2000 using a rapid system build form of construction with a limited lifespan – circa 25 years. According to planners, the building is now suffering from a “series of defects and is not economically viable” to maintain for the long term.
With a growth in student numbers, the university hope the multi-million-pound replacement building will enhance onsite facilities to encourage students back on campus.
A pre-application consultation meeting was held with BCP Council where feedback was taken on board and led to a refinement of the proposals.
While considerably larger than the existing building, planners have maintained the triangular roof design. As stated in the application, “the articulated roof form carries forwards the distinctive character of the existing building which is fondly regarded by the AUB community”.
If approved, the new block will provide fine art studios, traditional printing and sculpture workshops, alongside ancillary accommodation to include office space, toilets and flexible teaching spaces.
The development proposal has been designed to achieve Operational Net Zero Carbon and solar PV installations are proposed for the roof to generate a large portion of the building’s predicted energy.
Seventeen new urban trees will be planted as part of the design.
Assuming a positive decision is issued by BCP Council planning officers, it is not anticipated that the new academic building will be built out immediately. Completion for the build is scheduled for summer 2024.
A university spokesperson said: “AUB is committed to maintaining a high-quality campus which enhances the unique sense of place experienced at the campus.”
No objections have yet been lobbied at the application, which can be viewed on the BCP Council planning portal under APP/22/01674/F.
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