Ryland Quad Officially Opens at Birmingham Newman University

04/02/2025 by Amie Pedersen
Photos from around the Quad

A milestone in Birmingham Newman Universities Estates Masterplan is reached with the opening of the Ryland Quad. Located at the heart of the campus, this newly relandscaped outdoor space is designed for students, staff, and visitors to relax, socialise, and work.

This modern space features new seating areas, pods and a new catering outlet offering delicious street food. It is an exciting addition to the university’s ongoing Estates Transformation Masterplan.

Paul Dean, Director of Estates and Campus Services at Birmingham Newman University, said, “We are thrilled to see the Ryland Quad come to life, this space reflects our commitment to providing exceptional outdoor facilities that foster learning, creativity, and well-being. It’s a space where our university community can gather, socialise, and enjoy the vibrant environment we are creating for the future.”

The opening of the Ryland Quad marks the completion of Phase 1a of the Estates Transformation Masterplan, a key step in the university’s vision to enhance its campus.

The project began with the demolition of the Edgbaston Halls building, which had stood since the 1960s. In its place, a new green space was created for students and staff, with plans for potential new buildings in the future. Following that, remedial works on Littlemore Halls were completed before landscaping work on the Ryland Quad began in the summer of 2024. In November 2024, a time capsule was planted in the quad, capturing a moment in history, to be opened a century later, in 2124.

Looking forward

Phase 1b will shift focus to a major landscaping project at the front of the campus. This phase will include the creation of a new pedestrianised boulevard, comfortable social seating areas, improved lighting and windows to enhance the campus’s aesthetic and functionality and the relocation of the iconic Globe.

These updates aim to create a more welcoming and functional space for the university community, ensuring that Newman remains a vibrant and inclusive place for all.

“We’re excited about the future and the upcoming developments on campus,” added Paul Dean “Our Estates Masterplan is about creating spaces that enhance student and staff experiences, and we look forward to sharing these improvements with everyone.”

Staying informed 

For continuous updates and the latest news regarding the works on campus, please visit the Estates Development section on our website. The website provides timely information and updates to keep the campus community informed about the progress and any changes related to the demolition work.