New chapter unfolds at University Centre Shrewsbury learning and research base
A new chapter in the history of Shrewsbury’s Guildhall is being written as students and staff at the town’s University Centre enjoy their first term in the learning and research base.
A new chapter in the history of Shrewsbury’s Guildhall is being written as students and staff at the town’s University Centre enjoy their first term in the learning and research base.
The building at Frankwell Quay has been given a new lease of life, undergoing an extensive renovation to create a state-of-the-art lecture theatre, seminar rooms, laboratories, a business lounge, library, IT suites, coffee shop, reception area, student and staff common rooms and offices.
The University of Chester has invested £2.5 million in creating the seat of learning.
The transformation of the former council offices and meeting place is wowing visitors, while students have praised their new surroundings.
Mandy Thorn MBE, Chair of the Shropshire Business Board which recently met at Guildhall said: “What has been achieved at the Guildhall is incredibly impressive - colleagues at last week's Business Board were fulsome in their praise of the environment that has been created and excited that the aspiration of having a dedicated Higher Education presence in Shrewsbury has at last been realised.”
Bryony Lainton, who is studying Business at University Centre Shrewsbury, said: “Having been in the building under its previous use, it was great to see the transformation when we began.
“It’s in an ideal location, not far from the bus and train stations, and it is really easy to nip in to town for lunch or to-and-from accommodation at Mardol House.
“As the first intake of undergraduates, we are able to put our own stamp on the building and are all involved in decisions about the space we use - I really like it.”
An open evening will be held at Guildhall in November for anyone who would like to come and see inside the building – or find out more about studying at University Centre Shrewsbury. The details of the event will be shared soon.
University Centre Shrewsbury Deputy Provost Paul Kirkbright added: “We are extremely pleased with the refurbishment of Guildhall to create a bright and welcoming learning and research centre with a range of features.
“Ensuring that students, staff and visitors have first-class spaces for learning, research and events has been a priority from the start.
“In addition to fantastic student accommodation at Mardol House, and the beautiful Rowley’s House, University Centre Shrewsbury offers outstanding facilities to be enjoyed not only by students and staff, but by people across Shropshire.
“In our first weeks since opening to undergraduates we’ve hosted a Civic Reception, a Shropshire Business Board meeting, and a celebration of two years of Shropshire Safe Places which supports vulnerable people.
“We’re also hosting a Shropshire Partnership in Education and Training meeting, a regional Battlefields Trust meeting and the Victoria County History Shropshire relaunch this month.”
