The winner of the estimated 150,000 design contract will draw up a comprehensive public realm plan for the universitys main campus overlooking the River Irwell.The project aims to transform the areas between university buildings into vibrant public realms while also boosting pedestrian and cycle connectivity, integrating sustainable greening initiatives efforts, and improving accessibility.According to the brief: The University of Salford has an ambitious campus public realm plan, and the next phase of this will see the appointment of a Landscape Architect Designer to lead the development, refinement and delivery of a comprehensive public realm plan via production of a RIBA Stages 1 and 2 design and specification together with a Baseline Ecological Survey.AdvertisementThis process will involve close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, advancing sustainability and biodiversity design principles while prioritizing equity, diversity, and inclusion enhancements. We also envisage the appointed Landscape Architect to draw on ecological and other data to co-produce the public realm vision.By building on these foundations, the University of Salford aims to establish a world-class campus that reflects its values, enhances the student, staff and visitor experience, and contributes positively to the wider community.The universitywas first established as the Pendleton Mechanics Institute in 1850, and transformed into a university in 1967. Today it is home to around 20,000 students and 2,500 staff, and specialises indigital technologies, biometrics and health.The university has a 190 million annual turnover and a strong focus on encouraging closer links between industry and academia. The main campus overlooking the River Irwell is 2kmwest of Manchester City Centre and 1.5kmfrom the multi-billion pound MediaCity development at Salford Quays.The latest procurement comes almost six years after Flanagan Lawrence won a competition to overhaul the University of Salfords historic Maxwell Hall music venue. Last month Salford City Council waved through the demolition of Hodder Associates Centenary Building in Salford the first-ever winner of the Stirling Prize.AdvertisementRecent projects completed on the campus include an 81 million student accommodation complex by Sheppard Robson, and a 55 million gateway project by Stride Treglown. Both projects were part of a smaller 2009 masterplan for the university drawn up by Hawkins\Brown.Bids for the latest commission will be evaluated 70 per cent on quality and 30 per cent on price. Applicants must hold employers liability insurance of 5 million, public liability insurance of 5 million and professional indemnity insurance of 2 million.Competition detailsProject title Landscape and Public Realm ArchitectClientContract value TbcFirst round deadline Midday, 19 March 2025Restrictions TbcMore information https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/notice/e24b5141-c179-445a-a8d4-2553e61e8949