Gleeds redevelops campus for Borders College and Heriot-Watt University in Scotland
(26/05/2009)

Gleeds has completed work on the final phase of an education project which sees Heriot-Watt University and Borders College unite to share a new campus in Galashiels. Gleeds provided project management, CDM co-ordination, and business planning services for the £31.4 m scheme which is the first of its kind for Scotland.

The two education bodies will now share the circa 18,500 sq m Netherdale site which acts as the main campus for Borders College’s 2000 students and is also the site of the School of Textiles and Design for 600 of Heriot-Watt University’s students. The scheme has been hailed as ‘one of the most exciting developments in the Borders for years’ by supporters, and has even been a subject for debate in the Scottish Parliament. Funded by the Scottish Funding Council and the European Regional Development Fund, Gleeds were originally asked to provide a business case study for the landmark project which is currently being studied as a “template for best practice” to be rolled out across Scotland for similar schemes in the future.

The redevelopment of the site took place over three phases. The first, which included the refurbishment of the University’s High Mill building, now accommodates the world renowned Heriot-Watt School of Textiles and Design, phase two incorporated the development of facilities for the College’s technology department and the final phase comprised extensive remodelling and renovation of the Main Campus Building. The completed campus now offers shared facilities such as a fitness suite, lecture halls, textiles, hair & beauty and other vocational workshops, as well as a modern learning resource centre.

Work was carried out during term time and was managed with a great degree of sensitivity in order to minimise disruption to student’s timetables. It is anticipated that an official opening will take place at the beginning of the next academic year in September when a member of the Royal Family is expected to attend.

Commenting on the scheme, Stuart Senior, Managing Partner for Gleeds Scotland operation said, “We are delighted to have been involved with this landmark scheme for Scottish further education. This development means Borders College and Heriot-Watt University are now able to offer a world class centre of learning to the many young people and adult learners who enrol each year. Also in this time of economic challenge the scheme provides a blueprint for shared working and pooled facilities.”