Miller on site with uni arts centre in May

Miller Construction has been selected by Bangor University for the £40m arts and innovation centre known as the Pontio Development.

The project designed by Grimshaw Architects will deliver a 500-seat theatre, studio theatre, cinema, restaurant, bars, a new Students Union building and teaching and learning spaces.

The 100,000 sq ft building was designed to achieve a BREEAM 'excellent' environmental standard and will provide a link from the Memorial Arch to the university's main building. Works are due to start on the Deiniol Road site in May for completion in spring 2014.

Dewi Hughes, director of programme management, Bangor University, said: "Pontio will be a superb building and we are looking forward to working with Miller in the final stages of procurement of this project. Meet the contractor events are being planned, in conjunction with Gwynedd Council, to promote opportunities for vocational training during the construction period, and to help provide opportunities for local labour and businesses."

Chris Webster, Chief Executive, Miller Construction, said: "Bangor University is a new client for us and we are looking forward to developing a long-lasting relationship with them."

The project team includes Arup and Atkins.