The ‘Creative Conurbation’

Working on behalf of main contractor George Downing Construction (GDC), SES was appointed in 2018.

It has installed a full range of building services including heating, cooling, ventilation and public health, as well as smoke ventilation, security and a specialist fit-out package including stage lighting infrastructure and audio-visual systems on Leeds Beckett University’s latest landmark building and new home to its School of Arts.

Additionally, further specialist teaching spaces to promote collaboration, knowledge sharing, and creative talent have been incorporated.

The building also allows the university to relocate several departments under one roof including the School of Film, Music and Performing Arts as well as its Fashion Department.

SES operations director North, Paul Beaumont, said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity to work with GDC on behalf of the university on such a landmark building.

“Our extensive experience of working on complex buildings in the higher education sector certainly stood us in good stead on this occasion.

“I believe our early adoption of BIM Level 2, combined with Prism, our offsite manufacturing facility to manufacture modular building services have both been instrumental in delivering the scheme to the high standard that clients come to expect when choosing to appoint SES.”

Professor Peter Slee, vice chancellor of the university added: “Leeds Beckett University is a major contributor to the success of the cultural and creative industries of Leeds and the ‘creative conurbation’ which is developing in the greater North.

“This wonderful new facility not only creates a new city landmark, it also elevates the visibility of the university, providing a resource that we believe will contribute to the creative economy in Leeds.

“GDC and its team, including SES, have delivered a fantastic state-of-the-art building, the scale and stature of which ensures it complements the cityscape and becomes a gateway to the planned Leeds Innovation District, which will provide a catalyst for the productive, sustainable and inclusive economic development for the city.

“It is also the perfect environment in which to bring academia and industry thinking together.”