Arup delivers University of Glasgow, Western Campus redevelopment

In collaboration with AECOM, 7N, and LUC as part of the masterplan development team, Arup aimed to fulfil the University of Glasgow's aspirations outlined in the Campus development framework.

The goal was to create a modern campus that pays homage to the historic surroundings, ensuring a lasting legacy for both current and future students, with the new infrastructure and public realm within the former Western Infirmary site connecting to the old Gilmorehill Campus and other areas of Glasgow’s West End.

Within the University’s redevelopment, Arup was responsible for the design of several key pieces of infrastructure, having worked on features such as lighting across the campus, aimed at improving safety and enhancing the overall visitor experience during the evening hours. Arup also prioritised the improvement of pedestrian flow by creating welcoming outdoor spaces.

Since the beginning of the redevelopment in September 2015, Arup also completed several areas of the campus including, University Avenue, University Place, St Mungo Square and Snow Bridge Gardens.

In the first phase of the University of Glasgow’s Western Campus renovation, Arup incorporated sustainable drainage systems within University Place. The purpose of this was to reduce the flow of water to combined sewage systems, instead diverting to the river and provide green amenity, creating a greener way to manage surface water sustainability and contributing positively towards environmental enhancement and place making.

The Adam Smith Business School is another key project within the redevelopment won by Arup alongside architect Hassell in 2018, costing approximately £50 million. The building, open to staff and students since September 2023, now includes modern and collaborative learning and teaching facilities. In collaboration with Hassell, Arup contributed towards the mechanical, electrical and public health design to minimise operational carbon, as well as supported on the fire and acoustics for the facility.

The University of Glasgow’s redevelopment is still ongoing with the Keystone Building due for completion in September 2027. The multipurpose teaching and learning facility within the campus will include student and engineering research labs, large teaching spaces. Spanning approximately 26,000m², the key project aim is to deliver a low carbon, sustainable building that meets RIBA 2030 goals.