The University square is set to be developed into a more vibrant and welcoming space, with added greenery and new paving. Akademiska Hus will begin setting up barriers from 11 May, and work will commence on 18 May.
– It's great that this area will now also be given new life, just like the square outside Building 11 in 2024, says campus manager Olle Lilliestierna.
– We have developed these ideas through working groups linked to Campus Plan 2040, involving staff, students and representatives from Akademiska Hus.
The entire square outside the main entrance will be affected by the development, but the changes will be most noticeable in the area south of the fountain and along the north–south pedestrian route between the library building and Building 1 (see sketch).
Among other improvements, the existing outdoor seating area will be upgraded with new paving, more greenery and additional spaces for socialising, while the square itself will be enhanced to support activity and community. Parts of the concrete surfaces will be replaced with permeable materials to improve stormwater management. More trees and plants will be added to create a better microclimate and increase biodiversity. The aim is for most of the work to be completed by the start of the autumn term.
Akademiska Hus’ overall schedule is as follows:
- 11–13 May: Site establishment and barriers installed
- 18 May: Phase 1 begins
- June–September: Phase 2 in progress. By the start of term, large parts of the area will be open for use, although some work—such as tree planting and natural stone paving—will remain due to delivery times. Smaller work areas will therefore still be fenced off.
- September–October: Phase 3 in progress. This includes the final stages of the outdoor seating area redevelopment and cycle parking. Smaller areas will also be fenced off during this period.
– There will be some noise from the works at times, but Akademiska Hus will, as far as possible, adapt the work to minimise disruption to activities—just as was done when the square outside Building 11 was redeveloped, says Olle Lilliestierna.
