THE North’s leading university has begun a £2.8m building project.

The work will see Durham University’s Engineering and Computing Sciences research facility upgraded, with new offices, study spaces and research areas.

The project has been designed by GSS Architecture.

Jonathan Hunter, from the firm, said: “The building will provide specialised computing laboratories which will improve the learning and working environment for both staff and students.

“Informal break out spaces will also be provided which will allow students to study between seminars, as well as study pods and learning areas being used for group work.

“This will provide a dynamic, collaborative learning environment which will promote discussion between students and the transfer of new ideas.”

It is hoped the work will be finished by October.