University of Suffolk begins work on new student hub
Work has begun to transform the former library on the University of Suffolk's waterfront campus into a new student hub featuring social spaces, a gym, events space and Students' Union offices.
Why it matters: The development is part of a wider wave of investment across the Ipswich waterfront campus, which the university says will give students more modern spaces to study, socialise and access support services.
The details: The former library building, on the north side of the campus, will be redeveloped to provide a range of new facilities, including:
- Social areas for students to meet, study or relax between lectures
- A new gym and fitness studio
- A large events space
- A prayer room and wellbeing area
- Students' Union offices
- Bookable meeting rooms for SU clubs and societies
The bigger picture: The student hub is one of several projects underway across campus.
- In the James Hehir Building, new laboratories and facilities are being developed for the Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) course, which launches in September 2026.
- In the Waterfront Building, improved study spaces and new PhD facilities are being created.
- Earlier this year, the university opened a new library and study spaces.
Renders of how the new student space will look (Photo: Concertus)
What they're saying: Lee-Ann Durrant, Students' Union president of education, said: "This is a really exciting moment for our students as the building will provide us with a vibrant space right at the heart of campus, bringing students together to connect, relax and make the most of their time here."
She added: "With new social spaces, fitness facilities and room for our growing number of student societies, it's going to transform how students experience campus life. I'm especially looking forward to seeing it become a place where our community can come together and thrive."
Professor Jenny Higham, Vice Chancellor at the University of Suffolk, said: "We are proud to make such significant investments into our students and campus. Earlier this year we opened our new library and study spaces and will be adding a new student hub and teaching spaces. These will give our students more modern, vibrant spaces to learn, study and socialise that will ultimately enhance their whole experience of university life."
Who's delivering it: The University of Suffolk is working with Concertus to deliver the campus projects. The new library was completed by Barnes Construction, the student hub is being delivered by Pentaco, and the pharmacy work by Seamans.
The bottom line: With building work now underway on the student hub, alongside new pharmacy laboratories and PhD facilities, the University of Suffolk is embarking on a significant overhaul of its Ipswich waterfront campus.
Prospective students can see the campus for themselves at open days on Saturday, 18 April and Saturday, 27 June.
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