MMU lodges Birley Fields plans

Manchester Metropolitan University has submitted a detailed planning application for the £110m campus for nursing and teaching students at Birley Fields on Princess Parkway in Manchester.

The main academic building pictured – dubbed the sugar cube by MMU – will hold lecture theatres, study areas and public-access sports and arts facilities. The overall plans combine academic, community and residential uses.

Chancellor Prof John Brooks said: "In these tough times, we are proud to be investing in Manchester. These superb facilities are an investment in the next generation of teachers, nurses and health professionals and will strengthen the impact we have in our local community."

MMU aims to create the greenest campus in the country with zero carbon, zero water and zero waste at Birley.

Rupert Goddard, associate partner at architect Sheppard Robson, said: "The design combines diverse public spaces with retained trees, strong sustainability credentials and innovative architectural design, and will become a landmark project for Hulme and the city."

Drivers Jonas Deloitte advises MMU on planning matters.