University of Portsmouth wins design award for new sports centre

The University of Portsmouth's Ravelin Sports Centre has won the best Public Sector Project: Design Stage Award at the BREEAM Awards 2020. This is a prestigious award for the most innovative sustainable projects of the previous 12 months. The Sports Centre, which is currently being built, is due to open to students, staff and the public in 2022.

The award winning design includes features to create renewable energy from roof solar panels and internal heat recovery systems, to manage waste water drainage by creating an Urban Orchard, a biodiverse grassed roof with beehives and a system to reuse the waste pool water for toilet flushing. The design for this green sports centre had already received a rating of “Outstanding” by BREEAM UK, the world’s leading sustainability assessment for buildings.

The BREEAM judges praised the University’s Sports Centre design for its holistic consideration to a wide range of social and environmental issues and the level of engagement. The focus on functional and space adaptability was also noted.

Professor Graham Galbraith, Vice Chancellor said, “I am absolutely delighted that the design for our new Sports Centre has received this prestigious award. Not only will it be a fantastic sporting venue for students, staff and local residents but also one of the most sustainable sports centres with a swimming pool in the country, and a landmark community facility for our city.

The University is committed to sustainability and aims to become climate positive by 2030, with this outstanding sports centre setting the standard for our future developments."

The Ravelin Sports Centre design was judged by BREEAM against Confetti CQ Campus at Nottingham Trent University, Urbanist Vine Street student accommodation in London and The College, Swansea University. The award was announced at a special event in London hosted by actor and presenter Robert Llewellyn.  

The University is investing £400 million over 10 years into developing its campus in Portsmouth’s city centre. This Estate Masterplan includes constructing new landmark buildings and creating new public spaces in order to support its strategy to be sustainable and create a vibrant experience for all.