November 11 2024

The University of St Andrews has shared early plans for a new computer science building at its North Haugh campus.

Digital Nexus will see the School of Computer Science collaborate with researchers from other fields of science to find solutions to climate change, dementia and other societal challenges in one integrated learning and research hub.

Replacing the existing New Technology Centre and John Honey Building the hub will frame the Holm oak tree to the north and involve the infill of a southern embankment to create a sunken 300-seat lecture theatre below a new public space. Two wings will flank Potato Avenue and Pines Street between these spaces, joined by a glazed central link.

In a concept design statement, the applicant wrote: "The two wings align with the existing street pattern, with a glazed link in between, creating a social heart to the building.

"The building sits into the existing slope, grounding itself in its context. North-south connectivity across the site is enhanced with new ramped and stepped access externally, plus an inviting feature stair and lifts internally. Two new high quality public spaces are created: a civic-scaled central plaza to the north (the heart of the campus) and a sheltered courtyard to the south."

Leading the revitalisation of the university's science and medicine campus the 'architectural landmark', is being delivered by a team including HLM, AtkinsRealis and LUC.

A second consultation will take place on Wednesday 11 December between 15:00 and 19:00 at the Rector's Cafe in the Student Union building ahead of a planning application in early 2025. 

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