The University of Hertfordshire has reached a major milestone in the construction of its flagship science and engineering building, Spectra.
Most of the building work is complete, marking a significant step in the multi-million-pound project at the Hatfield-based campus.
Spectra will house the School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science; set to revamp STEM fields' teaching, learning, and research activities.
The keys to the five-floor facility have now been transferred from the leading contractor, Morgan Sindall Construction, to the university.
Professor Quintin McKellar, vice-chancellor at the University of Hertfordshire, said: "We’re thrilled to have received the keys for Spectra and can't wait to see it full of students in the new term.
"This remarkable space will inspire our students to become the next generation of leading engineers, computer scientists, mathematicians and physicists, and is a testament to our investment in high-quality learning, innovation and the wider community."
As the biggest individual structure on campus, Spectra will serve as an innovation, research, and enterprise hub.
The building's state-of-the-art facilities and equipment are expected to broaden the university's study and research offerings significantly.
Additionally, it aims to enhance its high-quality, real-world research impact capabilities.
UoH will oversee the remaining internal fit-out work, including the installation of IT, audio-visual, furniture and specialist equipment.
Set to open its doors to staff and students in September, the building will host modelling, simulation and research labs, flight simulators, an electric vehicle facility, a wind tunnel, a welding bay and a controls testing suite.
The innovative features offer practical work environments for students to prepare for their future careers, including state-of-the-art cyber security labs.
Beyond the university, Spectra will bring significant benefits to the local community.
It is anticipated to act as a catalyst for regional growth, filling crucial STEM industry skills gaps and providing specialist services to regional businesses.
Emma Curtis, area director at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: "Handing over the keys for the new School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science was an exciting moment, as this facility will significantly boost much-needed STEM skills while creating a vital hub for advanced research and academic innovation."
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