UCA expands at its roots
Local councillors from the borough of Epsom and Ewell have granted the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) Epsom planning approval to change the use of two centrally located buildings for educational purposes.
The Wells Building on Church Street and Parkside House on Ashley Road signify an expansion of UCA’s estate, providing more than 40,000 square feet of additional space and delivering high-quality teaching, learning and social spaces.
The building on Church Street marks a return to UCA’s roots, as it is adjacent to no. 1 Church Street, which was previously home to Epsom Technical College and School of Art, its predecessor institution.
Investment in the buildings’ construction and reconfiguration is likely to reach around £13 million.
By utilising existing office buildings close to its Epsom campus, UCA will be able to deliver these retrofitted spaces rapidly, in an environmentally friendly way and with minimal disruption to the community, student and staff experience.
The projects will also enhance collaboration with Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, the local community, and residents as the new buildings will provide opportunities and spaces for creativity and innovation and blaze a trail for greater engagement in the town’s activities.
UCA’s Chief Operating Officer, Mark Ellul, said: “This is a massive step forward in growing our Epsom campus and building on our global reputation as a centre for Fashion & Textiles and Business School for the Creative Industries.
“We must have facilities and functions in place for us to deliver the very best creative education and adding two new buildings to our estate will create a creative learning environment that is fit for the 21st Century.”
Works will commence later this year and the plan is to occupy the buildings in 2024/25.
Emma Cook UCA