THE architectural practice behind the multi-award-winning Aerospace Integrated Research Centre (AIRC) at Cranfield University has designed four new buildings on the Bedfordshire campus.

CPMG Architects is delivering a new Agri-Informatics facility, Water Sciences Building, an extension to the existing Pilot hall, and a new Fire Station to enhance research and learning facilities for staff, students and visitors as part of a 25-year masterplan.

A ground-breaking Agri-Informatics facility will create a new home for the university’s National Soil Inventory. The £2.2m development will consolidate data and resources – including samples and maps from around the world – into a leading centre for soil science and data analysis.

The Water Sciences Building is an extension of the Vincent Building on the east elevation and the new Pilot hall extends the existing sewage works. These works will provide industrial-scale research and testing facilities for scientists, engineers and students including a storm water tank, test and control sewer loop and gas emissions test facility.

In addition, a new Fire Station is being developed that will replace an existing facility which serves the airport on campus.

Development team manager Tracy Flynn said: “As well as enhancing our campus estate, the wider impact these buildings will have on our research capabilities will help to inform industry strategy and shape decision-making at a national and international scale. We are really pleased to be working with CPMG to deliver these projects which will become showcase facilities.”

Director for CPMG Architects Nick Gregory said: “We are proud to have been awarded these new contracts which will have an impact on the university’s world-class and internationally-recognised research.

“The designs we have developed combine our specialist higher education knowledge with our industrial and commercial expertise to meet the complex nature of these buildings and the university’s requirements.”

CPMG has designed the buildings in line with the university’s carbon management plan and have introduced energy-saving solutions during the design process.

Nick added: “We’re really pleased to be working with the university again on these projects which is testament to the excellent relationship we have with the university and we look forward to working with the delivery teams to bring our designs to life.”

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