The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan has unveiled huge redevelopment plans which will completely transform its Preston campus and stimulate growth in the university district in the heart of the city.

The first stage of development will take see the construction Of £30m-plus Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC) start in 2016, subject to relevant planning permission approval.

At the same time work will commence on the development of an iconic gateway to the university, which at its heart will feature a completely remodelled Adelphi roundabout with a vast new public area, provisionally known as Adelphi Square which aims to bring together the university and the city.

UCLan’s vice-chancellor Professor Gerry Kelleher said: “Over the coming decade we will invest in the region of £200m to create a world-class campus environment which blends new facilities with the creation of public, green spaces to encourage people from all over the city to visit and enjoy the campus.”

It’s hoped that this redevelopment will contribute to a renewed development and regeneration of the university quarter flowing through to the rest of Preston as a whole.

The vice-chancellor added: “Developing a skilled workforce which meets local, national and international needs is central to our development plans. Future investments like the Engineering Innovation Centre will reflect that goal, helping to create jobs, kick-start regeneration and attract inward investment into the city.

“Our vision for the future of the University is shared and supported by our project partners Preston City Council and Lancashire County Council. We also want to listen to and work with our neighbours and all the community, to ensure the City and region benefit from the tremendous cultural and economic opportunities that our plan will create.”

Councillor Jennifer Mein, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “The University’s plans reflect the county council’s vision for an attractive, well-connected and walkable city, which is easy to get around using all modes of transport. Our engineers have been working alongside the university for several months over these proposed changes to the Adelphi roundabout and we believe we have developed a solution which will cater for everyone, including walkers and cyclists or those using buses and cars.”

Councillor Peter Rankin, Leader of Preston City Council, said: “This is a significant development in the continuing success story of the university. A successful university is crucial for Preston. We now have an opportunity to create a lasting legacy for future generations of students, academics, local people and for the city as a whole.”

Being based in Longridge near Preston, UCLan is our local university and it's fantastic to see this huge new construction project being proposed so close by.