Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin UniversityAnglia Ruskin
University6

For over five years, we’ve partnered with Anglia Ruskin University, offering strategic insights for both their Cambridge and Peterborough campuses. Together, we have reimagined campus structures post-COVID, navigating a competitive marketplace, and focused on reaching their carbon reduction goals. Our collaboration has also supported ARU to enhance their identity and ensure affordability without compromising the student experience.

Our innovative approach and commitment to sustainability have made us a trusted partner in Anglia Ruskin’s mission to provide an inclusive, forward-thinking educational environment.

Projects
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1  Cambridge Campus Masterplan
2  Creative Quarter Redevelopment
3  Peterborough Campus Masterplan
4  University House
5  Peterborough Innovation and Research Centre
6  The Lab

1 Cambridge Campus Masterplan

We initiated a masterplanning exercise for ARU’s Cambridge campus, collaborating with Faithful+Gould and Land Use Consultants (LUC). We developed a clear, dynamic, and viable long-term vision for the estate, guided by the university's 2017-2026 strategy and extensive stakeholder consultation.

Mcw Architects Aru Cambridge Campus Masterplan 1

Mcw Architects Anglia Ruskin University East Road Aerial Masterplan

2 Creative Quarter Redevelopment

The Creative Quarter at ARU’s Cambridge campus will unify and enhance the Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Centred around the Coslett and Ruskin courtyards, it features a new media building, improved connectivity, and a vibrant reception area to boost visibility and ARU’s brand identity.

Mcw Architects Aru Creative Quarter Redevelopment 1

Mcw Architects Creative Quarter Masterplan 1

3 Peterborough Campus Masterplan

The £30 million project transforms a car park into a vibrant, green campus in Peterborough. The phase one building features informal learning spaces, a multi-purpose area, and sustainable design, integrating with the city’s fabric and offering links to the cathedral and River Nene.

Mcw Architects University Of Peterborough Masterplan 1

The university will breathe new life into the city and region, helping to empower people with the skills and training they need.”

Mayor James Palmer
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority

Mcw Architects University Of Peterborough Masterplan 3

Mcw Architects University Of Peterborough Masterplan 2

Mcw Architects University Of Peterborough Masterplan 4

Another major milestone for ARU Peterborough, which will play a key role in the redevelopment of the city.”

Professor Roderick Watkins
Vice Chancellor of ARU

4 University House

This transformative project for Peterborough integrates the new ARU campus into the city fabric, replacing a low-quality car park with a green, accessible space. The campus features dynamic learning environments, visible through large glazing, and prioritises sustainability with green roofs, bike facilities, and future low-carbon energy connections.

ARU Peterborough will play a key role in the redevelopment of the city as well as providing transformational higher education for people from Peterborough and the wider region.”

Professor Roderick Watkins
Vice Chancellor of ARU

Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Exterior 3

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Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Interior 1

Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Exterior 1

Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Interior 5

Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Interior 4

Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Plan 1

Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Plan 2

Mcw Architects Aru Peterbrough University House Plan 3

5 Peterborough Innovation and Research Centre

The new ARU Peterborough Research Centre transforms the Wirrina car park into a green, public campus with 3,300 sqm of flexible research space. Designed in Cross Laminated Timber and steel, it promotes visibility, innovation, and collaboration, and with a contemporary, transparent façade, it’s a statement structure.

Mcw Architects Aru Research And Innovation Centre 1

Mcw Architects Aru Research And Innovation Centre 2

Mcw Architects Aru University Of Peterborough Innovation And Research Centre 1

Mcw Architects Aru University Of Peterborough Innovation And Research Centre 2

This is another step forward in what has been a long-held ambition within the city.”

Dr Nik Johnson
Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

Mcw Architects Aru University Of Peterborough Interior 1

Mcw Architects Aru University Of Peterborough Plan 1

6 The Lab

The Lab in Peterborough's University Quarter will drive cultural, economic, and educational revitalisation by transforming a brownfield site into a landmark cultural hub. It will support STEAM education, address local skills deficits, and connect the city centre with the River Nene, enhancing Peterborough’s urban landscape.