£25m Wolverhampton science block nearing completion
With its glistening glass panels reflecting the sunny blue skies, this latest landmark is now entering its final phase as it prepares to welcome new students.
The £25 million development will become the University of Wolverhampton's science block with facilities for 2,500 undergraduates and postgraduates and 150 staff.
It replaces the former MB Building on Stafford Street which stood in the heart of the city for 60 years.
It is the first phase of a multi-million pound investment in the city centre, with work on an £11m business school also under way.
Behind a boarding that reads 'Investing in science in Wolverhampton' passers-by can see scientists of the future busily carrying out their work as the window gives a view directly into classrooms.
The first lessons taught in the new block will be chemistry with the block fully open by early 2015.
University spokesman James Allen said: "The first phase of the build will be completed by September to early October and this will be the ground and first floors of the building. The second phase is due to open in January 15.
"Our new chemistry course will be the first lessons taught there for our first year students.
"This is a massive investment by the university into the city and into the community. We are very keen on investing and playing our part in the local economy."
Mr Allen also revealed that businesses were keen on employing students with a scientific background.
He added: "We have chosen to invest in science because we listened to employers and they were telling us they liked to see students with qualifications in science, technology, engineering and mathematics."
The development scheme, which is being project managed by Faithful and Gould, will see the new building re-open as part of a phased approach, with the first part opening in September.
Wider redevelopment of the university will include a multi-million pound business school, which is currently being developed on the junction of Molineux Street and Camp Street in the city.
It will be designed by architects Sheppard Robson, project managed by Gardiner & Theobald, with engineering services provided by Arup.
The new business school will boast an executive education suite, an IT suite, a central social area and a cafe.
It is due to open in September 2015.
Speaking earlier this year Dr Anthea Gregory, head of the business school and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, said: "This will cement the business school's reputation in the region and nationally, not just with students but with the business community.
"It is also great news for Wolverhampton and shows confidence in the local economy and the city."
