The Development Brief describes massing and design parameters for a new building to provide:
• a new academic/public library (circa 10,000 sqm) for THE COUNCIL;
• a new Phase 2 Building (circa 11,000 sqm) for South East Essex College (SEEC); and,
• a new Phase 2 Building (circa 7,500 sqm) for University of Essex (UoE).
The Brief proposes development of the Site as a single integrated architectural solution that could be developed in two distinct phases:
Phase 1 comprises the College, located on the western side of the site.
Phase 2 comprises the library and University located on the northern and eastern sides of the site.
The three components will be arranged in a horseshoe around an enclosed atrium space, accessed from north and south, and on the south side opening into a new public outdoor space linking with the existing college and University buildings, and an improved former Prudential building.
The southern end of the College will be architecturally distinct to provide a new landmark feature, visible from the High Street along Elmer Approach, and adding distinctiveness to the new public space. The indoor atrium space will provide a dramatic setting for the Library ‘front of house’ and is envisaged as accommodating also café and retail uses, information services and the Focal Point Gallery.
The design provides an opportunity for the stakeholders to share civic and academic uses and facilities and enhance diversity within the wider town centre. Phased implementation of the design enables the respective building phases to be commissioned independently to accord with stakeholders’ differing timescales.
Development at Elmer Square is being enabled by the Council, funded by HCA and EEDA, purchasing replacement car parking in a new private development in London Road. This development is also providing for University of Essex residential accommodation for 560 students. The target date for building completion of the car park and student accommodation is Sept 2010.
