Union redevelopment
Despite rumours of lack of funds, President tells us it's "on track"
The Union President, Sameena Misbahuddin, has spoken to Felix to assure students that despite recent fears over funding, the planned redevelopment of Beit Quad is still on course for completion.
Concerns had been raised by students over the fact that the Union has received only half the money required for 'phase one' of redevelopment. The Union expected a £1.2 million contribution from College, but Imperial have only stumped up £500,000. This money was given with the stipulation that it should only be spent on updates required for the building to conform to the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). However, Misbahuddin told us that such restrictions had since been removed and the money could now be spent on general redevelopment.
She was quick to defend the project, which has come under considerable criticism. According to Misbahuddin, the Union has enough money, including £600,000 in spendable reserves, for the completion of phase one of the development.
She told us that the main reason why the redevelopment plan is secure is because it is one of College's Centenary flagship projects. These are six majors projects planned to mark the College's 100th birthday. Other projects include scholarship funds and a new Molecular Science and Technology building. Misbahuddin said, "The fact that the Beit Quad redevelopment is one of these shows the College's support of it, including full support from the Rector. They know the building is in dire need of redevelopment".
Although getting the Union development on the flagship list is undoubtedly a significant advantage in terms of revenue generation, the President has come under fire from some quarters for not seeking funding from other sources, notably the National Lottery. Countering these criticisms, Misbahuddin told Felix that the Union is looking for other sources of funding, including a scheduled meeting with the IC Trust.
Plans giving a detailed idea of the layout of each room will be released soon. The plans reveal that Da Vinci's will be changed into a 'Sports Bar', presumably to fit in with the Union's Wednesday 'Sports Night'. There will also be a new 'Music Centre' to replace dB's. This includes moving the stage to the end of the room; setting it up to be more akin to a real music venue. The Union offices will be moved to the top floor; in their place will be a new "Caf? Lounge" to provide a comfortable alternative to the existing bar environments.
Detailed plans will be publicly displayed in the Union foyer and in Felix.
