Shovels

University of Sussex celebrates construction start of student village



The University of Sussex has hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of major construction work on a new student village in Falmer.


Work commenced last week on the development that will more than treble the student housing capacity on the East Slope site from 590 beds to 2,117.

The site will comprise a mix of townhouses and flats with communal areas – such as kitchens, common rooms and laundry space – and feature secure cycle parking.

The project will also include the development of a new Students’ Union building and amenities.

The buildings have been designed to respect and enhance the vision of the campus’ founding architect Sir Basil Spence.

Professor Michael Davies, pro-vice-chancellor (research) at the University of Sussex, and David Swarbrick, managing director of Balfour Beatty Investments, were joined at the ceremony by the mayor of Brighton & Hove, councillor Pete West, and Maureen Chowen, the high sheriff of East Sussex.

David said: “This event marks the start of construction of the East Slope Residences project and a significant milestone in our partnership with the university.

“This partnership allows Balfour Beatty to bring to the project its extensive experience in the design, funding, construction and operation of high-quality accommodation, which will contribute to the student experience while at university.”

The development was granted planning permission in August 2016 and the first phase is expected to be completed by around September/October 2018, with all work due to be completed by 2020.



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