University of Portsmouth Campus Transformation

Redefining the student experience for a new era

  • Client University of Portsmouth

  • Location Hampshire

  • Sector Education

Services

  • Architecture

  • Civil engineering

  • Cost management

  • Digital engineering

  • ESG and Net Zero Carbon

  • Geospatial services

  • Lighting design

  • Multidisciplinary

  • Project and programme delivery

  • Structural engineering

The University of Portsmouth set out to transform its city centre estate into a connected, student-focused campus designed to support modern learning and long-term growth.

We brought together project management, cost management, architecture and specialist advisory services to guide the University’s £250 million transformation programme, setting a clear direction for the decade ahead.

Masterplanning a connected urban campus

Our project and cost teams shaped the masterplan and investment strategy, creating a coordinated approach that balanced ambition with the realities of everyday campus life. A simple, transparent cost framework, proactive risk planning and open conversations with staff and students gave everyone the clarity they needed to make decisions with confidence.

Our architecture consultants led the strategic redesign, creating a more unified campus where connection and belonging come naturally. A detailed review of existing facilities revealed opportunities to improve flow, cohesion and the overall student experience, helping spaces stay practical, adaptable and welcoming.

Health and safety and flood risk specialists were involved from the outset, building resilience into the plan. Meanwhile, our lighting team introduced targeted interventions that improved usability and wellbeing across the estate.

A cutting-edge, people-focused university estate

The masterplan will deliver a connected, intuitive campus where students can thrive. A central “spine” will link teaching facilities and lead to a new Student Hub near the award-winning Ravelin Sports Centre. Designed to WELL Building Standard principles, the hub will consolidate student services and create a friendly bridge between the library and student union.

The £110 million Faculty of Technology building will replace five outdated buildings with a single flexible, efficient academic environment, improving sustainability, performance and user experience.

Together, these projects create a campus that is coherent, resilient and ready to adapt as higher education evolves.

A connected campus future

Through joined-up strategy, steady coordination and practical design thinking, we are helping the University of Portsmouth build an estate that supports learning, strengthens community and positions the institution for long-term success.

Ridge's attention to detail, responsiveness and ability to integrate seamlessly with the wider multidisciplinary team have been key to keeping things on track. Their input has added real value from early feasibility through to delivery.

Tahir Ahmed
Director of Estates and Campus Services, University of Portsmouth

Explore Education projects

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping us to understand which sections of the website you find most useful and interesting.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.