Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen has appointed Miller Construction as the main contractor on the next phase masterplan to develop its Garthdee campus.
Miller Construction was one of five companies that participated in the
competitive tender for the construction aspect of the works, valued at
approximately £50m, which is set to begin in May 2011. Students and staff
are expected to occupy the first phase of building in time for the beginning of
the new academic year in September 2013. The total cost for this phase of the masterplan is approximately £90m.
Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, principal of Robert Gordon University said: “The development of key activities at Garthdee is an important project which will create a sense of excitement and innovation for students and staff alike. The new facilities will give our students an outstanding educational
environment. Staff and students from different disciplines will benefit from
working more closely together than has previously been possible and we will be
better placed to engage with our professional and industry partners.”
He continued: “We’re looking forward to working with Miller Construction on a
development we see as being a major step forward in ensuring the future
prosperity of our graduates, our region and beyond.”
The University’s plans for 34,000 m2 of new build development, estimated to cost £170m were approved by Aberdeen City Council in 2010 following approval
of the University’s Garthdee Framework Development Report and a number of
positive public consultation events with local residents.
Brian McQuade, joint managing director of Miller Construction, said: “We are
delighted to have been appointed to this prestigious contract. We have an
unrivalled reputation in the education market delivering first-class facilities
to meet 21st century education needs and look forward to working with Robert
Gordon University to deliver the next phase of its exciting new Garthdee
Campus.”
The developments will give the University a central point of arrival which will
make the most of its riverside setting and enhance the existing high quality
campus at Garthdee. The new building will be connected to the existing Faculty
of Health and Social Care, which neighbours RGU: SPORT and Aberdeen Business School.
The new development will see all of the University’s academic activities located
at the Garthdee Campus within state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities
including a new library, as well as formal and informal learning spaces for
students. It will also allow staff and students from different disciplines to
benefit from working more closely together on interdisciplinary themes which are
so important in today’s society and economy.
The new facilities will complement the University’s existing buildings at the
east end of the campus in terms of their innovative design and style, while
providing an outstanding educational environment for its students. The campus
will retain its park-like ambience and provide a recreational setting for the
benefit of staff, students and the local community.
