The UK’s largest prefabricated straw bale building is officially opened

One of the largest prefabricated straw bale buildings in Europe officially opened at The University of Nottingham today - Wednesday 8 February 2012. Designed by Make Architects the new Gateway Building has been constructed with 1,954 straw bales harvested on the University's very own farmland - just 200 yards from the site. Make Architects have produced the video Story of Straw about the technology behind the £7.2m development. Professor Karen Cox, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Infrastructure and the Environment, said: "Our aim is to create an inspiring and harmonious place to study and work which will reflect the University's impressive 'green' credentials. This innovative new building is part of a multi-million pound drive to expand and upgrade the University's teaching and learning facilities. This building, along with many other new facilities on our campuses both in the UK and Asia, will enhance the institution's position as one of the most popular destinations among applicants to UK universities. Housing laboratories for the School of Biosciences and the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science this landmark building signals the start of a 20 year visionary master-plan to expand the University's Sutton Bonington Campus and enhance its destination as a leading centre for the study of plant and animal sciences.