Multi-million pound University Sports Centre wins Best New Build at Brighter City of Derby Awards

The University of Derby’s new £10.8 million Sports Centre has won the Brighter City of Derby award for Best New Build 2015.

Hari Punchihewa, Deputy Chief Executive and Finance Director, and Ian Willgoose, Director of Estates both from the University of Derby, collected the award today (February 12) at St Mary’s Church Hall, Darley Lane.

The Sports Centre opened in September 2015 and provides a fully equipped, multi-purpose space for students and staff at the University. Facilities include: eight badminton courts, sports hall, 70 station fitness suite, dedicated fitness studio, two squash courts, a climbing wall, indoor sprint track and strength and conditioning suite.

Architects’ firm William Saunders, of Newark, who designed the building, and contractors GF Tomlinson, were also recognised by the award. 

Hari Punchihewa said: “The University’s new Sports Centre is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the region, offering state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for our students and staff.

“I’m thrilled that the Derby Civic Society has selected the Sports Centre for this prestigious award, recognising that, as a University we are serious about sport and it is going from strength to strength.”

Other nominees in the category included the Innovation Centre at Infinity Park, Markeaton Street Cottages, Full St Hotel and Flats, and Castleward Phase One.

The annual award is made by Derby Civic Society in memory of founding member and architect George Larkin. Each year, a trophy is kindly donated to the Society by his family and awarded to the overall winner in the Best New Build category.