MP tours University of Cumbria’s £9m teaching block in Lancaster

The MP for Lancaster and Fleetwood has voiced her support for the University of Cumbria’s new multi-million pound teaching block.

Cat Smith MP was taken on a tour of the £9m scheme at the university’s Lancaster campus, where she saw for herself the 10 teaching rooms, 222-seat lecture theatre, balcony area and chill-out space.

With the development now just weeks away from completion, students and staff have been consulted about the colour scheme, furniture and carpets.

The university said it is aiming to create a “sympathetic” addition to the hill-top campus, which features buildings dating back to 1880.

The project is part funded by a £2.5m grant from the Lancashire Local Enterprise Partnership.

Cat Smith commented: “It’s really exciting to be at the university and see a new lecture theatre coming on line and teaching rooms equipped with the latest technology.

“I think Lancaster as a city really thrives on having a student population to contribute to the local economy but also add that vibrancy.”

She added: “There’s always something going on in the city and its really good to see the University of Cumbria look to expand what they’re doing on the Lancaster campus.”

Work on the teaching block is forecast for completion in June, on the eve of the University of Cumbria’s 10th anniversary.