First glimpse of exciting new student experience

Northumbria University has opened the virtual ‘doors’ of its much-anticipated student accommodation in the heart of Gateshead.

A new computer-generated video released by the University gives prospective students a preview of the state-of-the-art 993-bed accommodation that forms part of the £150m Trinity Square development in Gateshead.

Due to open to students in September 2014, Trinity Square offers spectacular views across the Tyne, en suite bedrooms, fully equipped communal areas and flexible social spaces. Students will also have access to their own outdoor landscaped areas, a running route, fitness facilities and a multi-use games area.

With a Tesco Extra superstore directly below the accommodation, along with a wide range of retail outlets, a multi-screen cinema and easy access to the Quayside’s array of bars, restaurants and cultural venues, Trinity Square will become a vibrant centre for student life.

Trinity Square – a mixed-use development by Spenhill, the regeneration subsidiary of Tesco, built by contractors Bowmer & Kirkland – is the North East’s biggest regeneration project, in which Northumbria University is a key player.

Professor Andrew Wathey, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Northumbria University, said: “This virtual preview offers prospective students, and their parents, a glimpse of the student lifestyle they can expect at Northumbria University.

“When students move in to their accommodation next year they will bring a new energy, fizz and sense of community that will further contribute to the region.”

The CGI preview is the result of a collaboration between the University’s engineering academics and Gateshead-based animation company Something Moving. The computer generated video tour has been created to give prospective students a glimpse of how they could be living when the Trinity Square accommodation opens its doors in time for the 2014 academic year.

The video is already proving popular, with almost 5,000 prospective students being the first to see the state of the art preview at Northumbria’s Open Day this month. It has also been made available online through video sharing site Youtube.

Sharon Coe, the mother of prospective student James, viewed the Trinity Square CGI film during Open Day. Mrs Coe, from Doncaster, said: “It will be James’ first time living away from home and it gives me peace of mind to know that everything will be on his doorstep.”

The collaboration between Northumbria University and Something Moving is just the latest of a long line of partnerships between Northumbria University, Gateshead Council and businesses and organisations in Gateshead. Gateshead has become home to over 30 successful creative businesses started by graduates.

Northumbria students also have strong voluntary links with Gateshead, taking key roles in supporting carers and vulnerable people as well as undertaking cultural work in libraries and at sporting events.

Leader of Gateshead Council, Mick Henry, said: “Students bring with them creativity and inspiration. Having almost 1,000 talented students living in the heart of Gateshead will inject something new into the area. We already know from working with dozens of businesses set up by graduates in Gateshead how their innovation can help the borough.

“The real tangible benefits will be felt by local businesses, voluntary and community groups, bars, restaurants and attractions. But I think the whole feel of the area will change for the better too with the vitality and excitement that the students will bring.”

The video showing the facilities and lifestyle on offer from Trinity Square’s student accommodation can be found online at www.northumbria.ac.uk/trinitysquare.

Date posted: July 5, 2013