Sheffield Hallam University have acquired a development plot for their planned state-of-the-art Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC). The acquisition comes after the higher education institution was advised by real estate firm Irwin Mitchell.

The acquisition of land at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, which is likely to form part of the discussion when the University present at our Sheffield Development Plans Conference, will see the AWRC delivered by Sheffield Hallam University in partnership with Legacy Park Ltd. The research and development centre for physical activity is supported by the UK Government who have committed £14m of funding towards the project.

The vision for the AWRC is to see the centre create innovative solutions that ‘will improve the health of the nation’, tackling key issues such as mental health, rising obesity and static levels of physical activity. The finished project will feature both indoor and outdoor facilities for up to 70 researchers to carry out research on health and physical activity in collaboration with the private sector.

The new centre piece of the Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park which has been designed by HLM Architects will include:

  • 7.5m high indoor laboratory
  • 3rd generation pitch with cameras and tracking instruments
  • 3D biomechanical and gait analysis and scanning
  • Manufacturing workshop
  • MRI, CT and ultrasound equipment
  • Body composition measurement and physiological testing
  • Technology demonstration hub

Irwin Mitchell, who have been involved in the project since 2015, have advised the University on property matters since 1993. Talking of the project a spokesperson for the firm said: ”Sheffield Hallam’s vision is to develop the most advanced research and development centre for health and physical activity in the world and will be leading work which has the potential to transform the nation’s well-being. We are delighted to be involved in such a prestigious project which is a major step forward for the University, the city and the UK. We look forward to working with the AWRC as this exciting project comes to fruition.”

As well as the huge impact the University aims to achieve to the nation’s well-being it also aims to save the UK more than £115m by 2021, deliver a sustainable model for commercial partnerships, and deliver economic growth in the region within the Sheffield-Rotherham corridor.

We’re delighted to have Sheffield Hallam University speaking alongside HS2, Queensbury and Sheffield Property Association at the Sheffield Development Plans Conference this June – join us there!