BAM Construction North West has completed work on the first phase of the new Health Innovation Campus at Lancaster University.

The £41 million Health Innovation One building is an innovation hub offering co-location space for external organisations, as well as being the new home for Lancaster University's Medical School and Division of Health Research. The space is designed to encourage collaboration, where external organisations can draw upon the University's expertise to address significant health challenges and improve health and wealth outcomes in the region and beyond.

To mark the completion of the building by BAM Construction, Lancaster University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andy Schofield, was given a tour of the campus, along with VIP guests representing contributing agencies, David Read for the European Regional Development Fund and the Chair of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, Steve Fogg.

-- Advertisement --

Mick Donoghue, BAM's Construction Manager for the project, said: "The University and ourselves have now created 11 new buildings, and they become ever more interesting.

"We've brought our world-class collaborative approach and problem solving skills to this scheme to see through an ambitious design and to prepare the campus for the future.

"We've captured the building's data that will assist in its more efficient operation through a full BIM level 2 model.

"I think it looks fabulous and I hope it will be a great home for the very varied occupiers who will soon come to use it."

Covid-19 restrictions mean the planned opening for many staff and co-locating businesses has been delayed. However, some teaching will begin to be delivered in the new building from September.

As well as teaching, offices, and shared work space facilities, the new building features various meeting rooms and event spaces, including a dedicated Innovation Lab and Business Lounge. The new on-site café – HIVE – will include a menu focused on fresh food and healthier options, while still being affordable for those on a budget.

As restrictions are lifted, a regular programme of events will see members of the HIC community invited to attend and discuss health challenges and potential solutions – with opportunities for funding and collaborative project work also on the agenda.

Plans are also in place to introduce various workplace wellbeing initiatives for employees and tenants based at the HIC, to encourage healthier, balanced lifestyles.

Development of the new campus has been supported by a £17m contribution from Lancashire Enterprise Partnership's Growth Deal programme, as well as the European Regional Development Fund.