The University of Sussex has chosen Mace to build a new Life Sciences facility at its Falmer campus near Brighton.

The development is part of the University's £500 million investment to modernise and improve the campus. The project will be delivered by PREACH, Mace's public sector and education construction business unit, with construction scheduled to begin next year.

The facility will feature a Bio-Innovation Centre, becoming a hub for growing bio-medical businesses by strengthening partnerships with industry and creating more jobs in the region.

In keeping with the vision of the University's founding architect, Sir Basil Spence, the building's design will include the distinctive use of glass, concrete and brick with provisions of landscaped open space. It will also meet the highest standards of sustainability and incorporate a number of environmentally friendly features.

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In addition, up to £5.5m from the Government's Growth Fund has been provided towards the development.

Simon Neale, the University of Sussex's Director of Estates and Facilities said: "Mace has clearly understood our ambition to develop a beacon of science and innovation excellence that will bring significant economic and social benefit to the South East and UK.

"We will work together to create outstanding modern laboratories and high-tech teaching and research spaces that will inspire the scientists of tomorrow and our talented group of world-leading academics."

Terry Spraggett, Mace's Business Unit Director for PREACH, said: "We're obviously very pleased that the University of Sussex has selected us to deliver their new Life Sciences facility, which will provide enhanced teaching and research facilities for students and academics.

"We look forward to working closely with the University over the next three years to make these ambitious plans a reality."

(LM)