Kingston University has been given the green light for a new £55m building and landscaping project.

Councillors on the Royal Borough of Kingston's development control committee approved the project application at a meeting on 11 August.

The University said the scheme at its Penrhyn Road campus will 'transform' the learning environment.

The project plans include:

• A modern learning resources centre over several floors.

• A 300-seat multi-media auditorium.

• Rehearsal and performance space for the University's dance courses.

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• Three new public landscaped areas.

The scheme has been designed by Grafton Architects.

The University will also work with the council to see how its 'Mini-Holland' cycling proposals can be accommodated into the design of the landscaping.

Kingston University's Director of Estates Sean Woulfe said: "Local people and heritage groups have responded very warmly to this project. The design reflects the University's intention to engage with the public and open up learning opportunities for everyone.

"The colonnade draws people in, and the lively landscaped terraces showcase the University's learning activities to everyone passing by, on this key gateway to the town centre."

The current temporary Town House building on the site is scheduled for demolition in spring/summer 2016.

Construction work is due to start in summer 2016, with the new building and landscaping scheduled to be complete in late 2018.

(LM/MH)