Frequently Asked Questions
Why are you moving?
Both the Students’ Union and ARU have strategic targets to significantly increase the numbers of students participating in on-campus extra-curricular and co-curricular activity.
The Students’ Union are looking for a space to include;
- Open flexible space for students to congregate for socialising and/or group study to enhance the sense of community on campus.
- Space for full and part-time student representatives and SU staff to meet face to face with students.
- A flexible space for students to socialise.
Where is the money coming from for the move?
The University are investing in the development.
How much is it costing?
There is a budget of three million pounds to complete all the development works. This includes the new space in Peter Taylor House, our old space in Helmore 125 and Tindal building in Chelmsford.
Who’s doing the building work?
There are various contractors. COEL are carrying out the demolition work. We are also working with Store Guru who come well recommended and have worked with several Students’ Unions and Universities. Store Guru will work with us, and staff from the University, to make sure the space is transformed but so that it also conforms to University policies and Health and Safety regulations etc. They will take us all the way from our initial ideas to full and complete fit out.
Can I give my feedback?
Yes, click here to submit a question or give your feedback.
When is it going to happen/open?
The building works started in May. We are working towards being open in time for the new students arriving in September.
What is happening with summer schools/disruption during the build?
There should be no disruption with summer schools. Residents of Peter Taylor House could be disrupted and we are working with the Estates and Residential Service to reduce the impact on residents as much as possible. If you are a resident of Peter Taylor and have concerns during the building works please contact your RA in the first instance or message us here.
Will lectures be disturbed?
No there shouldn’t be any disruption to lectures.
What’s happening with the old spaces?
We are moving out of Helmore 125 and it will be redeveloped into additional social space for students.
What are the Students' Union opening times going to be?
This is still in discussion, but we hope to be open early and late into the evening.
What facilities will there be?
There will be a variety of seating, sofas and booths. There will also be desks and power points to charge laptops etc. There is going to be a kitchen area for students to use with a hot water tap and a microwave. We have also designed society lockers into the space and a trophy cabinet.
Will there be vending machines?
No, not to begin with at least, though feel free to bring food and drinks in with you. The SU shop is just around the corner if you want to purchase something to bring into the space with you. There will also be a kitchen area for students to use with a hot water tap and a microwave.
Who can use the space?
Any ARU students and staff and visitors to the University.
Will there be bookable space for societies?
Yes, there will be a meeting room with video conferencing facilities that can be booked by societies and student groups.
Will furniture be recycled if we are not taking it with us?
Yes we will hopefully be donating it to a local charity.
Will there be signage outside the building?
Signage is still being worked on, but the Students’ Union will be on all University way finding.
How does size compare to our current building?
Approximately doubles the floor space compared to our current offices in the Helmore building.
How does this fit in with your Strategic Plan and the university’s plan?
Both the Students’ Union and ARU have strategic targets to significantly increase the numbers of students participating in on-campus extra-curricular and co-curricular activity, so developing appropriate space for students to be able do that is vital.
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