'We are proud to bring that expertise to this landmark project': Northern Ireland construction firm breaks ground on £45m flagship Health Campus Building
Graham begins work on University of East London’s state-of-the-art academic facility, set to train future healthcare professionals and drive local economic impact
Northern Ireland construction company Graham has begun work on the University of East London’s (UEL) flagship New Academic Building on its Stratford Health Campus.
Representing an investment of more than £45 million from UEL, the New Academic Building will create a state-of-the-art teaching, learning, and research centre based on Water Lane.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on March 18 to celebrate works getting underway, with Mark Lynch, managing director – Building South and Pat O’Hare, regional director from Graham in attendance alongside Professor Amanda Broderick, UEL Vice Chancellor and President.
Designed to develop the next generation of healthcare professionals, the new building will house cutting-edge clinical skills centres and a prototype University Primary Care facility.
With completion expected by July 2027, it will also generate placement opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience of the healthcare profession.
It is scheduled to become home to a suite of courses, playing a central role in expanding access to healthcare education and supporting the growth of the regional health workforce.
Throughout the construction, Graham will be rolling out a social value plan which includes new jobs, training, school partnerships, apprenticeships and volunteering opportunities.
It will also look to utilise sub-contractors from the local area to support the regional economy, bringing in organisations from Newham and within a 40-mile radius of the site.
Additionally, Graham will work closely with Newham Council to give local suppliers direct access to opportunities on the project, while maintaining strong relationships with those living in the area to keep them informed during the construction period.
The new building forms part of a wider £170 million investment committed by the university over the next three years to deliver additional academic spaces and student accommodation across UEL’s campus to cater for those pursuing a career in healthcare.
Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice Chancellor and President, University of East London said: “This project is truly transformational. This groundbreaking showcases how our university is moving forward on our commitment to train the healthcare professionals of tomorrow to meet the future needs of the NHS. It gives our students and staff the opportunity to make a real difference in reducing health inequalities and creating a fairer, healthier future for everyone.
“Our Stratford Health Campus will also enhance our community more generally, boosting the economy, creating jobs and attracting investment. It’s an exciting moment for Newham and beyond.”
Mark Lynch, managing director - Building South at Graham said: “Breaking ground on the Stratford Health Campus is a significant milestone for both UEL and the wider community.
“Graham has a strong track record of delivering high-quality education facilities, and we are proud to bring that expertise to this landmark project. The Stratford Health Campus will create a dynamic environment for learning and collaboration, supporting the development of the next generation of healthcare professionals.
“We look forward to working closely with the university and our partners to bring this landmark project to life.”
Designed to achieve the highest sustainability credentials, the new centre is targeting BREEAM Outstanding certification, placing it among the most environmentally responsible university buildings in the UK.
Graham was awarded the development contract following a procurement process based on its experience in delivering complex, sustainable facilities in the higher education and healthcare sectors.