Rapid response for new University Centre MK
October 2008
In an unprecedented fast-track contract Ashe has just provided Milton Keynes with its very own university centre in 14 weeks flat.
The £2m contract in the centre of Milton Keynes has converted an existing office building into a state-of-the-art university facility providing over 40 spaces for learning and research, for up to 340 students. A highlight of the project was the conversion of an existing light well in the middle of the building into a stylish new two-storey gallery space with glazed floor and glass atrium. Contract manager Ian Greaves explains: “In order to deliver the project in the short programme required by Milton Keynes College, the site was open seven days a week with extended working days. We’ve been able to transform a tired office block into a stunning building which incorporates environmentally-friendly systems such as passive infra-red controlled lighting to minimise energy use.
“Existing external walls have been removed on the first and second floors to give a lighter, open feel and we’ve replaced the old rooflight with a glazed floor, covered at third floor level with a glass atrium. This provides a modern new focal point for the building.”
Anna McTaggart of SMC Charter Architects said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity to work on a project with such a dynamic interior design brief, and such an enthusiastic client. This project has been a real team effort in order to deliver it on time. We greatly enjoyed working with the team from Ashe and we’re very pleased with the end result.”
The project has a largely open plan ground floor accommodating a high tech information area with touch screen pods, coffee shop, exhibition space, library and marketing suite.
Mark Eustace, project manager for Milton Keynes College said: “The client is delighted with the quality of the building which is a tribute to the skill and professionalism of Ashe. The construction project was exceptionally well managed which resulted in the building being delivered on time to a very tight deadline despite the fact that the client added some significant extras. It was a privilege to work with such a diligent company. I have never worked before with a group of construction professionals who cared so much about the outcome of a project.”
Dr Keith Straughan Dean of the new University Centre said: “We are thrilled with UCMK. Ashe and the design team have pulled off an incredible feat to produce such an amazing building to a high specification in the ludicrously short time available. UCMK provides a dynamic and creative environment which is just right for a university centre with high ambitions. The Ashe team bought into our vision and passion for the building and allowed nothing to get in the way of achieving our goal. I cannot praise them highly enough.”
Students will be able to study on foundation degree courses such as business management, accountancy, computing and art and design. Courses will be run in conjunction with other local universities including the Milton Keynes-based Open University.
Ground floor gallery area
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