Plans to build a second teaching building and interactive public science centre at Peterborough’s new university have moved forward
The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority Board approved the full business case for the third phase of ARU Peterborough when it met recently.
The phase will feature the Living Lab – a publicly accessible science centre designed to stimulate and inspire more people into STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) sectors, including through the university’s curriculum and courses.
Broadening Peterborough’s cultural offer by creating a distinct ‘University Quarter’, the Living Lab will provide a window into the city’s net zero carbon future and will host events, exhibitions and flexible learning, including festivals of ideas, immersive displays, forums and evening classes.
The Board decision means work can continue to meet the timeline of the phase 3 project, which is to be ready for the start of the academic year in September 2024. The second teaching building will offer space for 1,750 more students, who will study in mainly STEM fields.
