ADP lands Elmer Square project design contract

The exciting scheme is being funded by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the University of Essex and South Essex College of Further and Higher Education.

It will incorporate an integrated municipal and academic library and digital gallery, a modern teaching facility for the College and a learning and teaching environment for the University.

The new building, which will provide a state-of-the-art educational and cultural hub, has already been approved by the Council.

Seven firms of architects tendered for the design contract and ADP was selected to draw up designs for the exciting new development, which could be in operation by late 2013 subject to gaining the usual planning approvals.

ADP, which has offices across Britain and in India , was behind the £23million library at Canterbury Christ Church University .

It also designed the multi-award winning Oxford Castle project comprising public spaces, cafes, bars and art galleries which led to the regeneration of a forgotten corner of the varsity city.

Councillor Derek Jarvis, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor for Culture, said: "I am delighted ADP were successful in landing the design contract for the Elmer Square development.

"This is a really exciting scheme which will provide a fantastic library facility for the residents of Southend and a first class learning environment for students from the college and the university.

"ADP have been involved in some prestigious projects and we very much look forward to working with them on this exciting development."

Registrar and Secretary of the University of Essex, Dr Tony Rich, said: "With nearly 1,000 students now based at the University's Southend Campus, the development of Elmer Square is vital to provide us with additional high quality teaching and learning space, as well as providing our students and researchers with a purpose-built library with access to a wide range of resources.

"We're delighted with the appointment of ADP as architects as they have a strong track record in designing libraries and other university buildings."

Anthony McGarel, Executive Director of Finance at South Essex College , said: "Our students already enjoy one of the best stocked academic libraries of any education provider.

"The appointment of ADP on this project means that we will be able to design a truly innovative combined academic and public library that supports the needs of all students and the wider community."

Roger FitzGerald, a partner in ADP, said: "We are extremely excited to be working on this major project for Southend.

"The project will combine complementary uses for the council, college and university, which should prove to be an exemplar and a trend-setter for similar schemes. It will be a really important landmark for Southend."