Caddick Construction has completed work on a major new campus for the University of Cumbria in Barrow, marking a significant milestone in the university's investment in engineering, advanced manufacturing, and health education.

Located on a 2.6-hectare dockside site, the striking new campus draws inspiration from Barrow's rich maritime heritage. The design features flexible and accessible teaching spaces, modern offices, catering facilities, and state-of-the-art learning environments to support higher education programmes delivered by the Institute of Engineering, Computing and Advanced Manufacturing and the Institute of Health.

The campus also includes exhibition and meeting areas, along with specialised workshops designed to enhance collaboration between students, researchers, and local industry partners.

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The development incorporates natural light optimisation, rooftop solar panels to power mechanical systems, a cloud-based building management system, and an air source heat pump — eliminating the need for gas. Its distinctive architecture, shaped to resemble a submarine surfacing from water, features a bespoke rainscreen cladding system and a curved roofline with glazing, achieving a U-value of 0.15W/m²K.

Beyond construction, Caddick Construction has generated £1.8 million in social value for the local community through partnerships with regional organisations and charities. Initiatives included supporting a school reading programme led by Hello Future and donating to Furness Homeless, a local charity providing wraparound support to adults facing homelessness.

Dave Saville, Regional Managing Director of Caddick Construction North West, said: "We're proud to have delivered this landmark project, which sets a new benchmark in educational design and demonstrates the power of construction when it’s rooted in community impact. Beyond the campus itself, we’re especially proud of the social value created by the team in Barrow, which has ensured the benefits of this project extend well beyond its walls."