Published:
Heriot-Watt University's new £19 million GRID reached a major milestone today (Monday Feb 25).
Construction work on the state-of-the-art project has now been completed by the building contractors, Bowmer & Kirkland, allowing the university to progress onto its next phase.
Over the coming weeks, a host of cutting-edge technology including IT systems and a games studio will be installed in the building ahead of its formal opening this autumn.
Anyone who has been at the university in recent months can't fail to have noticed the construction of this impressive structure and I'm extremely proud that we are now entering an exciting, new phase.
GRID is located in the heart of Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh campus and offers a new approach to teaching and learning by allowing students to work on real-world problems, across disciplines to deliver practical solutions with worldwide impact.
It will also help advance the university's international reputation for research and innovation.
Welcoming the latest landmark is Lynda Johnstone, Global Director for Estates and Facilities at Heriot-Watt University, who said: “I want to express my sincere appreciation for the hard work and commitment from everyone at Bowmer & Kirkland who have delivered this building on time and on budget.
“Anyone who has been at the university in recent months can't fail to have noticed the construction of this impressive structure and I'm extremely proud that we are now entering an exciting, new phase.”
GRID is a multi-functional space, spread out across three levels, which will be open seven-days-a-week. It will also house an Enterprise Hub to support business innovation, promote emerging technology and inventions, and encourage staff and students to pursue the commercial potential of their creative ideas.
Dr Gill Murray, Deputy Principal of Enterprise and Business at Heriot-Watt University said: “GRID really is more than a building.
“It will change how we teach and apply our entrepreneurial minds and skills to solving global issues.
“It's been designed to create cohesion between academic disciplines and our industry partners, proving an innovative teaching and learning environment for mathematics, engineering, physical sciences and computer science students and staff.
“Our students won't have seen anything like this before and I cannot wait for them to experience this fantastic new facility later in the year.”
Colin Kennedy, Construction Director at Bowmer & Kirkland, said: "Everyone has worked really well as a team. It's been a good example of collaborative working with Heriot-Watt University to ensure the build was delivered on time and on budget."