Finding a home for the Midlands Campus

Evaluated: Oct-Dec 2024       Decision: Withdraw (April 2025)

Site 1: Government Estate

An initially promising site held by Network Rail, an arms-length government body sponsored by the Department for Transport, was explored for potential use. The Westwood Training Centre has been vacant since 2022, is well connected by transport, and would have required minimal fit-out, while ongoing security and maintenance costs continue to be incurred by the agency. Early engagement, supported by a local MP and minister, was positive. However, there was insufficient engagement and access to information required. Therefore, it was impossible to progress our RIBA3 plans to funding partners. The option could not be progressed and was ultimately withdrawn by the Board. We are disappointed surplus public estate could not have been leveraged for social and community benefit. 

Evaluated: Mar-Sept 2025       Decision: On Hold (October 2025)

Site 2: Heritage Estate

Wroxall Abbey, a hotel and conferencing centre, was identified as a strong strategic fit and became the preferred option following Board consideration in May. Advertised on the open market, the site was visited and examined multiple times and a fully costed capital works programme was developed along with RIBA3 plans. However, funding partners advised the proposal could not be supported due to the 12–16 week lead time to operational revenue generation and the leasehold at market rent model. In October 2025, the Board agreed to pause progression and prioritise alternative options, whilst continuing to monitor future opportunities associated with the site.  

Evaluated: Sept-Dec 2025       Decision: Negotiations (December 2025)

Site 3: Mixed Estate

A privately owned site with historical significance and with existing operational mixed uses has become the preferred option following Board consideration in October. The site has been visited several times and a fully costed capital works programme developed. Funding partners are progressing with assessments with initial feedback being positive. Ignis Lodge expect final decisions during December 2025 whether acquisition can be progressed.