Estates masterplan
Birmingham Newman University is set to undergo significant transformations over the next two summers, enhancing the campus experience for students, staff, and visitors.
These changes are part of the University’s ambitious Estates masterplan, aimed at improving the arrival experience and overall campus environment. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s coming.
The University, recently renamed Birmingham Newman University, has been focusing on revising its Estates masterplan over the last year.
This plan is set to kick off with the demolition of the Edgbaston Halls building, one of the original accommodation blocks on campus, dating back to the 1960s. The demolition has received approval from Birmingham City Council and began in June 2024.
Project timeline
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September 2024
- Demolition of Edgbaston Halls complete.
- Ryland Quad relandscaping begins.
- Littlemore Halls remedial work started.
October 2024
- Relandscaping in Ryland Quad continues.
November 2024
- Time capsule to be buried in Ryland Quad.
January 2025
- Completion of Ryland Quad and Phase 1.
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The Edgbaston Halls building demolition marks the first phase of the masterplan.
Location and contractor setup
The main contractor will operate from a self-contained compound on the Cromwell Lane car park, formerly known as the student car park.
Timeline
The demolition is expected to take 10 weeks to reach floor level.
Traffic management
Approximately five demolition lorries will enter and exit the campus daily using a designated one-way system. To ensure safety and minimise traffic disruption, a dedicated banks person / signaller will be in place during these times.
Dust control
To minimise dust, the building will be dismantled using a nibbler machine, with continuous dampening to keep dust levels low.
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Once the Edgbaston Halls building is demolished, the area will be converted into a green space for students and staff, with the possibility of a new building in the future.
The demolition of Edgbaston Halls and the upcoming Ryland Quad landscaping project are crucial as some areas of the university have aged, and Edgbaston Halls had reached the end of its life.For specific questions or concerns, regarding the demolition, please reach out to Darren Grainger, the Site Foreman for City Demolition.
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Demolition and construction work in the Ryland Quad began in September 2024 and is set to be completed by January 2025.
Within the relandscaping works, the university will introduce a new outdoor learning space in the Ryland Quad.
Images of artist impressions of the new Ryland quad after landscaping work which began in 2024. 
Looking ahead to summer 2025
In the summer of 2025, the focus will shift to a major landscaping project at the front of the campus. This project aims to create a welcoming and functional space for the university community. Highlights of this phase include:
A new boulevard
A new boulevard will be constructed, featuring enhanced pathways for better navigation.
Social seating areas
Comfortable seating areas will be integrated, providing spaces for relaxation and social interaction.
Improved lighting and windows
These updates will enhance the campus’s aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Relocation of the Globe
The iconic Birmingham Newman University Globe will be relocated to the boulevard walkway, becoming a central feature of the new landscape.
Keeping the community informed
Birmingham Newman University is committed to keeping the community informed about these developments. Regular updates and detailed plans will be posted on the Estates Development webpage where FAQs can also be found.
The University is enthusiastic about the positive impact these projects will have on the campus environment.
Community pledge
Birmingham Newman University expresses gratitude for the community’s understanding and cooperation as these exciting developments take place.
The University is eager to see the transformation of its campus, confident that the Estates masterplan will significantly benefit students, staff, and visitors alike.