STUDENTS are expected to head back through the doors of a Southampton university building once again this September as details are revealed about its reopening. 

The Sir James Matthews building in Southampton's Guildhall Square is due to reopen after it was acquired from Solent University by the University of Southampton. 

Announcing the purchase at the end of last month, Southampton University said it was "delighted" it could extend its offering in the city centre. 

At the time it indicated that the building would need to undergo some refurbishments before it is ready to welcome students again. 

The university has said it is aiming to get students back on site in time for the new academic year this September. 


READ MORE: Sir James Matthews Building purchased by University of Southampton


Phil Wright, Senior Vice President at the University of Southampton, previously said:
“Adding a new educational space to our existing portfolio, along with the student accommodation at Mayflower will undoubtedly benefit the local economy and cultural vibrancy in Southampton.”

Based in the heart of the city’s cultural centre, the Sir James Matthews building has been unoccupied since 2019 when Solent University relocated its business, law and digital courses.

Solent University was advised by Weightmans and Savills during the purchase and the University of Southampton was advised by Lester Aldridge and CBRE.

Investment agent Alex Davies, CBRE Associate Director added: “The acquisition of the Sir James Matthews building is an exciting move for the University, further increasing its presence within the City Centre.

Daily Echo: Sir James Matthews Building, Southampton. Sir James Matthews Building, Southampton.

"CBRE is very pleased to have provided commercial and technical advice to the University of Southampton on this transaction. 

"We look forward to seeing the refurbishment completed and students being on site."

Named after one of the city's leading educational stalwarts, Sir James Matthews, the 101,794 sq ft building was originally used as a major department store but closed in 1993 under the name Plummer Roddis.

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