Why Universities are the beating heart of our cities and why maintaining them matters
This country is proud of its universities, and rightly so. Each institution holds a unique identity that helps it stand out. These places of learning attract students from across the UK and internationally. From Oxford’s dreaming spires to the coastal campuses of the South, universities shape the identity, economy, and future of the cities they call home. They are more than places of learning; they are cultural landmarks, economic engines, and social hubs. By attracting students, boosting tourism, and sustaining local hospitality and housing sectors, universities play a vital role in urban life. With such a wide reaching impact, maintaining and upgrading these institutions especially their historic buildings is not just important, it’s essential.
Universities are deeply important not only to students or the future of education, but also to the wider community and the nation. As much as they shape our future through knowledge, they themselves require time, investment, and care to stand the test of time.
How exactly do universities act as pillars of economic and cultural life?
Student populations drive local economic growth by increasing demand for housing, providing landlords with recurring, reliable tenants year after year. Their spending also supports local retail and hospitality, student discounts keep them coming back, sustaining businesses.
Universities frequently host academic conferences and cultural events that attract visitors. This increased footfall fuels the retail and hospitality industries and creates demand for accommodation for visiting families and guests.
However, this growing demand also brings challenges. Student and tourist numbers often outpace the supply of accommodation, entertainment, and lifestyle hubs. Without ongoing development and modernisation, universities risk falling behind impacting enrolment, the local economy, and supporting industries.
What draws students to these universities and their cities?
One major factor is their environment and location, proximity to city centres, coastal views, or their rich heritage. Historic buildings offer a distinct visual identity to a city. For example, universities in the South of England have stood for centuries. Cambridge was founded in 1209, Oxford around 1096. These beautiful structures have supported generation after generation of students. But age takes its toll. Without proper maintenance, even the most iconic buildings lose their charm and safety.
That’s why there must be a strong focus on protecting and modernising university buildings. This doesn’t mean altering their historic character especially not those that predate modern times but rather, combining conservation with innovation.
Given the impact universities have on our cities and communities, it’s no surprise they attract so many students and tourists. From lovers of historic architecture to fans of cutting-edge design such as South Bank University in London, each building tells a story. Whether a structure dates back to the 11th century or stands as a modern marvel, university architecture fosters pride among locals and visitors alike.
What does maintaining these buildings involve?
It requires ongoing repairs and upgrades to keep universities functional and, importantly, compliant. For example, Oxford University spent £18.5 million on building maintenance in the most recent financial year, a significant figure, yet still under their £26.4 million budget. This reflects the sheer cost of maintaining historic institutions.
Interiors and learning environments also need modernisation to support evolving teaching methods. One inspiring case is the University of Edinburgh, which recently opened a new Cancer Research facility the Institute of Genetics and Cancer (IGC). Delivered through the Procurement Hub Major Projects Framework and delivered by Robertson Group, the 4D Cellular Medicine Building was designed to complement the existing architecture, using custom bricks to match the original design. It now houses advanced laboratories and data analysis spaces, a perfect example of preserving the past while supporting the future.
Universities must also play their part in addressing climate change.
As global temperatures rise, sustainable design has never been more important. Universities need smart retrofitting and refurbishment strategies that help reduce their carbon footprint. This means investing in decarbonisation and environmentally conscious upgrades.
A great example comes from Wellington Place Primary School in Leicester. Though not a university, the project illustrates what’s possible. Designed by Willmott Dixon and funded through a mix of Section 106 developer contributions and government grants, the school was built with sustainability at its core. Air source heat pumps, solar panels, and fabric-first construction helped the school achieve net-zero carbon emissions, a model universities can follow.
Maintaining large university buildings, especially historic ones, is complex. But looking ahead, we must also adopt a proactive approach planning for the future, embracing sustainability, and aligning with climate goals.
How can Procurement Hub help?
At Procurement Hub, we’re proud to support universities through a credible range of frameworks. By bridging the gap between clients and suppliers, we help public sector organisations, including universities achieve their goals around maintenance, repairs, refurbishment, and sustainability in a compliant and cost effective way.
Our team is honoured to play a part in preserving and enhancing university estates from listed heritage buildings to state-of-the-art research facilities. We ensure institutions remain fit for purpose and inspiring for generations to come.
Universities are more than educational institutions. They are lifelines for the cities they serve. From boosting local economies to preserving architectural heritage and leading sustainability efforts, their role is both vital and ever evolving. The need for proactive maintenance, thoughtful refurbishments, and sustainable upgrades is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.
Our solutions support this transformation, helping universities stay strong in both form and function, ready to inspire the future.
Find out more about our procurement solutions or contact courtney@procurementhub.co.uk for more information.