A new £5.6 million events building is to be built for the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

Stepnell has been appointed to deliver the facility as part of the second phase of the Arboretum's development programme. Construction work will start at the end of this month and completion is scheduled for summer 2018.

Designed by Glen Howells Architects, the 2,500 sq m building will create a new high-quality, permanent venue for the Arboretum's different functions and events. Features include banqueting space for up to 300 guests, a bar area for drinks receptions, a kitchen and meeting rooms.

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In addition, the single-storey steel-framed building will feature timber cladding and extensive glazing giving views over the Arboretum grounds, while the building's design will incorporate wind catchers; an energy-efficient form of natural ventilation.

The contract award follows Stepnell's delivery of the award-winning Remembrance Centre at the Arboretum, which opened to the public in October 2016.

Construction director Bill Haynes said: "After the highly successful Remembrance Centre project, everyone is pleased and excited to be continuing our excellent working relationship with the Arboretum through this second project. We are proud to have been appointed to deliver this superb addition to the Arboretum's facilities and look forward to starting work."

(LM)