The STEM development project is now complete at the new space opened officially to staff and students on Monday 24 April.

The centrepiece of a two-year, £11m refurbishment of Sheaf and Eric Mensforth Building (EMB) at City Campus is the creation of the Hertha Ayrton STEM Centre. The stunning space, which now links the two existing buildings, is part of a project to support high-quality STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) activities. As well as the centre – which boasts galleries, collaborative spaces and social learning – the development includes a cutting-edge chemistry lab and modern new engineering provision.

Seating and tables are also available within the Hertha Ayrton STEM Centre, offering spaces for learning and relaxing, with easy access to Eric’s café within EMB via a brand new entrance into that building. It also offers an impressive new access point to the University from the train station.

The centre has been built with the environment in mind. All the furniture fabrics have an EU Ecolabel – a scheme which accredits the environmental sensitivity of products throughout their lifecycle. It is connected to the district heat network – heated by burning  non-recyclable waste which would otherwise go  to landfill – and a smart lighting system means artificial lighting only switches on when natural light is low.

The refurbishment presents a great opportunity for us to improve both the student and staff experience in these locations.

Anyone experiencing any issues with the new space should contact the helpdesk on x 4444.