University plans refurb of social and study spaces

In the social space, there will be an updated bar and large TV screen for watching sports

A £2m refurbishment is under way to improve social and study areas for students at the University of Bradford.

Level 02 of Student Central - the main space where students socialise and hold events - will be updated with a cafe bar, sports bar, games area as well as a "peaceful garden hideaway".

The university's JBP Library is also being expanded and refurbished with the area including bookable rooms and new group study space.

The work will be finished by the start of the new academic year in September, the university said.

Students have worked with the university to help design garden space

Steve Gilley, the university's director of infrastructure, said the areas would enhance the university's appeal.

He said while the higher education sector was facing challenges, particularly around funding, it was "vital" they continued to invest to make the university attractive to existing and prospective students.

Improvements are also been made to the campus's computer technology and midwifery facilities, which will also be ready for the start of the new term.

The work will be completed in time for the new academic term, beginning in September

The new £1.1m facility will be used for clinical skills, simulated scenarios and both face-to-face and online teaching.

Other investments have been made in the university's space centre as well as the computer sciences department.

Mr Gilley said: "We have designed them to be as inclusive as possible and hopefully they will be enjoyed and welcomed by all students."

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