Conservation of Heritage and Nature
When writing about the creation of the University in 1961, founding architect Sir Basil Spence once said "the whole precinct should have the 'sense of a university' and should, if possible, grow out of the soil of Sussex to become a natural part of this beautiful site". His vision of Sussex was one where the campus would develop in sensitivity with the landscape, preserving mature trees and accommodating the 3,000 students expected in 1970.
As the University now approaches 18,000 students while still growing, with a campus now far larger than the original buildings constructed by Spence, this vision is still as important as it ever was, and is still closely adhered to by the Grounds team. We will be renewing the original Spence vision with the creation of new and equally distinctive signature buildings, as well as improved pathways and movement through campus, sustaining clear lines of sight to the Sussex Downs. Choice of building materials will also echo those favoured by Spence, allowing us to increase capacity while continuing to enhance the environment in sympathy with architectural heritage.