Morgan Sindall Construction has been selected to develop the University of Salford’s new Acoustics Building within Crescent Salford's innovation zone.

The 1,300m² facility will be designed to advance the university's capabilities in acoustics and sound engineering.

The university has submitted the planning application for the new construction, and on approval, the project is expected to commence in mid-2025 and be completed by early 2027.

To be located in the Innovation Quarter along Frederick Road, the proposed facility is part of the larger Crescent Innovation project.

This initiative, led by the Crescent partnership consisting of the University of Salford, Salford City Council, and ECF (a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse), seeks to foster economic growth in Salford by strengthening connections between academia, research, and industry.

Designed to house the university's Acoustics Department to offer advanced research and teaching facilities, the new building is set to replace the current premises within the Newton Building at the Peel Park Campus.

Morgan Sindall was appointed through the North West Construction Hub, High Value Construction Framework Lot 1.

This appointment builds on a history of collaborations between the university and Morgan Sindall.

To be equipped with acoustic testing chambers and photovoltaic panels, the new facility will adhere to the highest technical specifications.

It will aim to achieve a Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) rating of Excellent and utilise electric power to minimise its carbon footprint.

The construction process itself will also offer practical learning opportunities for students, with Morgan Sindall providing site visits, workshops, and expert advice. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to enhance student employability through exposure to industry practices and trends.

Morgan Sindall Construction North West area director Steven Gregory said: “Over recent years it has been our privilege to deliver several world-class new facilities for the staff and students at this brilliant university, and we are thrilled to be renewing our relationship on this brilliant new project.

“Through its investment in its campus, the university has demonstrated that it is focussed on using the technologies of tomorrow to help improve the world around us - an ethos fully shared by Morgan Sindall. We’re very proud to support them on their journey.”

Last month, Morgan Sindall began working on an Innovation Centre in Workington, England, focusing on digital technology and advanced manufacturing businesses.