New vision for Aston University as south wing could be demolished in major revamp plans

The university said it wanted to blur the boundaries between campus and city, adding the removal of “old, inefficient buildings” was a key part of achieving that connectivity.

A design document, submitted as part of the plans, said the university was embarking on a “radical” strategy which would significantly change the campus to provide a more “efficient, flexible, and dynamic estate”.

“The first major step in the capital programme is to transform the main building and create an improved ‘front door’ to the university, demolishing the south wing to reinstate the original façade, and improve accessibility,” it said.

A council officer’s report described the south wing as a “poor-quality extension to the original 1950s building”.

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It said its demolition would improve accessibility to the main entrance; provide coherent landscaping and enhance the quality of the environment.

If plans are approved next week, refurbishment works would also be carried out to the retained parts of the main building.

These would include a new entrance atrium and works to reinstate the original façade.

A ‘relandscaping scheme’ would include a series of new shared footpaths and cycleways, tree planting and a new water feature which has already been approved.

“The proposal to demolish the 1970’s southern block will both restore the original composition of the 1950’s façade, reinstating it as a landmark destination building on the campus, as well as open up the public realm at the heart of Gosta Green and improving east-west legibility,” the report said.

“There is therefore no objection to the extent of demolition.”

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It concluded the new building was well-designed and the landscaping worked “greatly benefit the area”.

To facilitate the demolition of the south wing, a temporary entrance to the northeast side of the building is also proposed.

This area would be returned to its current condition once the works were completed, the report stated.

The proposals have been recommended for approval subject to a legal agreement and will be considered by the city council’s planning committee on Thursday, December 19.