Developing the West Slope
Learn about how we are growing our campus.
Campus development
We’re investing in making the University of Sussex better. Through our campus development, we can maintain our position as one of the world’s leading academic institutions and attract and work with the best and brightest minds.
A better campus
Our experiences of study, work and life over the past few years have highlighted even more keenly the need to provide space that works for all our people – students and staff alike.
We’re investing in making our stunning 60-year-old campus better – with everything from big builds to small changes to our existing space and facilities. These will give us areas that work, providing modern spaces and keeping our historic campus beautiful for another 60 years.
Over the past five years, we have built 2,117 new bedrooms on campus, creating a new student village – East Slope – with a mixture of townhouses and flats as well as study spaces and social hubs. We have also opened the doors of our brand new Student Centre – a multipurpose learning and events space, which as well as being a new hub for student services, offers retail and leisure amenities.
Our next step is the most ambitious programme we have undertaken in recent years. The West Slope development will greatly enhance the student and academic experience, giving the University the infrastructure it needs to continue to be an internationally-recognised centre for excellence, as well as being a covetable place to live, work and forge connections.
Investing in the student experience
Read about our exciting new Student Centre.
Enhancing our landscape and environment
Explore our grand green spaces.
Preserving our architecture and heritage
Delve into our decades of history.
Latest news
Sussex grad is part of the team to complete the first RAAC removal
Posted on behalf of: Better Campus Team
Last updated: Thursday, 4 April 2024
Suruchi K Kathane
The University of Sussex has completed its first RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) replacement project. Work to replace the outdated concrete panels on Bramber House got underway in August 2023 with the final works completed ahead of the Spring vacation and Floor 4 due to reopen in early April.
Recent graduate Suruchi K Kathane had the opportunity to work alongside the Estates Capital Programme project team as part of her MSc Construction Project Management dissertation. She shared her experience with us:
“My role was to develop and implement a plan for properly storing, handling, and transporting the RAAC panels on the construction site. This involved defining stacking and bracing requirements, specifying protective coverings, and mapping out logistical sequences to minimise risks of damage.
“I gained insights into coordinating across multiple trades, enforcing strict safety protocols, and conducting frequent site inspections. Clear documentation and visual references were critical for monitoring compliance and ensuring consistency across all teams.
“I learned pivotal lessons in navigating unforeseen challenges through a collaborative, solution-oriented approach. The team's ability to openly discuss concerns, weigh impacts, and make pragmatic decisions was fundamental to keeping the restoration progressing.
“This pioneering project solidified my passion for conserving built heritage while utilising modern project management strategies. I am grateful for the guidance from the experienced contractors and consultants, which has undoubtedly strengthened my leadership and communication abilities.
“I’ve been inspired by the experience, and my long-term aspiration is to further specialise in concrete repair and modernisation initiatives for iconic mid-century structures, helping preserve our architectural marvels for generations to come.”
Many buildings across the UK have been impacted by RAAC, in particular public sector buildings. Having completed our first replacement project, the Estates Capital Programme team now has a greater understanding of how to work with this material and can apply this expertise across future RAAC projects.
Safety remains our top priority, so we will continue to monitor the condition of all RAAC on campus as we assess options for our other impacted buildings. All our buildings remain open and safe to use, with access restrictions where necessary.