Update on Matters Relating to Learning Spaces

James France Developments

The major development in the near future is the refurbishment of the James France Building to include:

  • Creation of a mezzanine floor where Human Science are currently located which will overlook the exhibition area and will be equipped for informal use by students.
  • Underneath this will be a new flat-floor teaching space.
  • Refurbishment of the three flat floor rooms CC014, CC109, CC110.
  • Refurbishment of the three tiered rooms CC011, CC012, CC013 including extension to the size of CC012 and CC013.
  • Refurbishment of the exhibition area.

 

This is scheduled from May-September 2010.

 

It is intended to have a consultation meeting in late February/early March to get academic and other expert input to the designs.

 

Members are asked to note these developments.

Timetabling

As reported at the last meeting the University’s Operations Committee has agreed in principle to move to a central timetabling system. The purpose of this will be:

  • To improve staff and student timetables
  • To provide consistent online availability of timetable and room information
  • Improve our use of space.

 

The implementation will be phased over 2010/11 and 2011/12.

 

The project is being managed by Dr Anne Mumford with significant support from Tricia Breen (IT Services) and Caroline Pepper (Facilities Management). Jennifer Nutkins is the sponsor and chairs the Project Management Board. The Board include administrators from academic departments and Paul Byrne represents the PVC(T).

 

A tender process has been undertaken and supplier presentations on 13th January were well attended.

 

A Board meeting is scheduled for late January which it is hoped will lead to a recommendation to the Chair of Operations Committee for approval of expenditure including the appointment of a temporary 2-year IT Development Officer in IT Services and a Timetabling Manager in Facilities Management.

 

 

Dr Anne Mumford, 20th January 2010.