Project for the Design & Construction of the Charles Huang Advanced Technology & Innovation Centre (CH-ATIC)

The building to be known as the Charles Huang Advanced Technology & Innovation Centre (CH-ATIC) is located on John Street, bounded by the Royal College Building to the south, the Thomas Graham Building on the north, and the James Weir Building behind, and was formerly used as the University of Strathclyde Students' Association (USSA) Building. Originally constructed with 8 levels plus a mezzanine at level 8, and a rooftop apartment in the late 1950s, the building was further extended to the side and rear in the 1970s. The existing GIFA is 5,535m2. Design is expected to commence around May 2024 to achieve a planning application in Autumn 2024, and a building warrant application around November/December 2024. RIBA Stage 5 is expected to run from Spring 2025 to Summer 2026.

CH-ATIC will deliver a state-of-the-art Innovation & Entrepreneurship Hub that enhances the University’s delivery of one of the UK’s most dynamic and successful ecosystems for the creation of high potential innovation driven enterprises. CH-ATIC will also connect to the wider innovation district to support start-ups and SMEs to ensure inclusive growth and broaden the reach of our industry-led clusters through our collaborative R&D programmes and engagement activities. Aligning with the UK and Scottish Governments’ commitment to net zero, CH-ATIC will aim to create an exemplar climate neutral building that responds to the climate emergency, and reflects innovative design and construction methods so that, as far as possible, the building is carbon neutral for energy and adapted to climate change. They will also escalate learning and deployment of innovative technologies, and construction solutions as we transition to net zero.

The project objectives, include, however, are not limited to:

• Working to a maximum construction contract value of c. GBP 18million, maximise the working space within the 8 floors, c. 60,000 square feet (5,535 sqm), and create a welcoming entrance to the building, with a new front façade and internal reception area:
• Refurbish the existing building to the design standard(s) / framework(s) specified by the University, it is envisaged that this will be as close to EnerPHit standard as possible, however, may include targets from other standards / frameworks (such as RIBA Sustainable Outcomes (2030) / Net Zero Public Sector Buildings Standard). This is in keeping with the University’s KPI16 commitment to achieve net zero by 2040 by targeting a saving of around two thirds of embodied carbon as compared with a new building, whilst targeting net zero in operation; and
• Create open, inclusive working spaces for multiple groups notionally (and flexibly) split by cluster (5G, Industrial Informatics, Fintech, HealthTech and Space), and organisation (University and non-University / partner spaces), that respond to the need for collaborative, quiet, private and group working spaces, promote collaboration and chance-encounters and encourage people to come into, stay and interact within the building.

Please note, the anticipated construction strategy is to adopt a two-stage design & build, whereby the University is intending to tender / appoint a Contractor under a PCSA during RIBA Stage 3 – Developed Design. At the end of RIBA Stage 4 – Technical Design, the University will either enter a works / construction contract with the same Contractor appointed under a PCSA, and tender the work packages via that same Contractor, or will conduct a new tender exercise to appoint a Contractor.

Please note, the University intends to novate only the Architect, M&E Engineer, and Civil / Structural Engineer to the appointed Contractor for the works / construction, prior to commencement of RIBA Stage 5 – Construction. Subconsultants will also novate as required, with reports to be assigned accordingly. Additional information: Please note, the information contained within this Prior Information Notice (PIN) is subject to change.