Press Releases

University halls of residence - phase 2 – University of Reading

Release Date : 11 September 2009

As part of the University of Reading's plans to develop its Whiteknights campus, the University has submitted a planning application for phase two of its hall of residence redevelopment.

The latest application relates to the development of two new halls of residence on the site of the current Childs Hall, which will be demolished once students have moved into nearby Stenton Hall. The latter is a major part of the first phase of the building scheme and is due to be completed in time for the new academic year in 2010.

Colin Robbins, Director of Estates and Facilities Management at the University of Reading, said: "We are building our replacement halls of residence in two phases to ensure that there is always enough accommodation on campus at any one time for our current students.

"Once phase one Stenton and Mackinder Halls are operational and fully occupied in the autumn of 2010, we will then be able to commence building on phase two. Between now and then, there is an enormous amount of planning and preparation work needed but we look forward to the replacement of our ageing halls of residence with new, environmentally-friendly halls, which will enhance the student experience and provide innovative and modern facilities to distinguish the University from many of its competitors."

The new halls, which will create 894 new bedrooms, will follow the design of Mackinder and Stenton Halls and be a mix of townhouses built around central courtyards as part of Stenton Halls and flats at Childs Hall.

Both phases of the halls development are an integral part of the University's Whiteknights Development Plan 2008-18.

ENDS

Further information from Alex Brannen, University of Reading Media Relations Manager on 0118 378 7338

Notes to editors:

Work on phase one halls, Mackinder and Stenton, is progressing well, and they will be completed and occupied by students by October 2010.

The application for phase two has been made to Wokingham Borough Council as the determining authority.