STAFF members at Bournemouth University have celebrated a significant phase in the construction of its new academic building.

The topping out ceremony of the state-of-the-art space, which will feature seminar rooms, lecture theatres and computer labs, saw lecturers joined by local councillors, board members and developers Willmott Dixon.

Professor John Vinney, vice-chancellor, said: “This is another significant milestone in the major improvements we are making to our campuses in Poole and Bournemouth. The new building will provide state of the art academic space and along with other facilities, such as our new Student Centre, is part of an investment programme that is transforming the student learning experience at Bournemouth University.”

The £22million structure – due to open from September 2016 – was funded in part through a £5m Higher Education Funding Council for England STEM award.

It is granted to help improve facilities and initiatives to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

Neal Stephens, managing director of Willmott Dixon, added: “We are delighted to be working with our client, Bournemouth University, on their new academic building at their Talbot Campus. The scheme offers a blend of education delivery and research, campus catering and professional practice.

“Our relationship with Bournemouth University has been fused through true collaboration from day one and our team are very proud to be part of this exemplar, landmark project.”