Portsmouth University is on the hunt for developers and contractors to build their delayed 300ft student tower, constructionenquirer.comwrites.

The project, known as the Blade due to the building’s distinctive, sloping and sharp tower, was delayed after developers pulled out in March due to planning problems and ‘financial reasons’. Keen to progress with the £30 million scheme, the university is poised to restart the tender process.

Use of colourful cladding panels

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Construction of the striking building should take place in Anglesea Road, on the site of some former swimming baths in the city centre. Using different coloured cladding panels will create a ‘futuristic’ impression of sharp angles and tapering edges.

Development of university campus

The university aims to provide student accommodation for all of its first years students, something that it cannot currently guarantee. The Blade will comprise around 600 new student rooms, offices and teaching space. It was initially due for completion in time for the new 2013 educational year.

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Tender process for build

A university spokeswomen told portsmouth.co.uk:

“The University of Portsmouth will soon begin the tender process of seeking a new partner to develop the scheme as originally conceived.”

“The tender process will be published in due course in European media as European procurement processes requires us to do.”

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Planning permission for the modern tower was granted last year and despite ‘controversy’ over its height, the project won backing form many local groups, including the Portsmouth Society and Canon David Hopgood of St John’s Cathedral.

Author: Elizabeth Smythe    Date Written: 23 Aug 2012