Find out all the latest project updates and see what’s planned by exploring this page.
The Students’ Union and our sub-division Barts and The London Students’ Association are very excited to be moving into brand new spaces in the Garrod Building from Autumn 2023, as part of a £6 million investment by the University. The new spaces will include a new Café & Bar, Hub Study and Social space, Fitness Studio, Multi-Faith facilities and other activity spaces, and will replace the current BLSA Building which is due to be demolished shortly as part of the new Life Sciences Development at Whitechapel.
The project is being delivered in partnership with the University Projects Team, Kendall Kingscott, Fusion and Beardwell Construction.
The new Cafe & Bar will serve delicious food, drinks and coffee by day, and host events in the evenings. It will include a comfy lounge space, booth seating and large screens for sports screenings and events. There's also a DJ booth, outdoor deck area and gender neutral toilets.
Moodboard (pdf)
The Old Library will be transformed with the refurbishment creating a stunning social and study space for all students to use by day. It will also act as an event space for University, Students' Union and Societies events.
The Fitness Suite space will be located in the basement offering a training and exercise space for Sports Clubs and Get Active sessions. Shower facilities will be provided adjacent to the fitness suite.
Floorplan (pdf)
Plans for the 2nd floor activity rooms are still being developed but will include a new kitchenette space, games and activities and chillout space for all students to use.
The 2nd floor office spaces will provide new facilities for student representatives, the BLSA President and Students' Union staff including a meeting room, kitchen and office spaces
The Multi-Faith Centre will be located on the 3rd floor and will include two spaces for quiet contemplation, reflection and prayer, open to all students and staff. Ablution, shoe storage and sound facilities are also included.
The Ground Floor entrance area will be home to a new pop-up Students' Union service. Communal spaces will be fully refurbished providing a refresh of all internal areas connecting our new spaces.
Project brief and designs developed in consultation with students and staff
Planning application submitted to Tower Hamlets Council
Student and Staff Reveal Event
Tender released for construction works
Construction contractor appointed
Student focus groups and surveys to develop our offering in the new Garrod Building spaces
Construction works on-site will start on 27 March. Some areas of the Garrod Building will be temporarily closed to enable the works to take place
New branding finalised for Barts and The London Students' Association and our new Café / Bar spaces
BLSA Building and Griff Inn goodbye events - further details will be added to this page soon
Move-out from the BLSA Building and closure of existing spaces at our Newark Street location.
New spaces open to students, staff and the public.
Contact us if you have any questions or feedback about the Garrod Building at su-garrodproject@qmul.ac.uk