Students at the University of Exeter are set to benefit from a multi-purpose new facility located at the heart of the Streatham Campus.

The vibrant new facility, called The Sanctuary, offers a bright, modern and flexible space for students all year round. Formerly known as the Lower Exam Hall, it will host a mix of study, exams and major student events, like the Careers Fair.

The Sanctuary opens its doors to students today (April 3), and will provide 180 seats for quiet study for students throughout April, from 8am-8pm and seven days a week.

During May, it will be used for summer examinations before Event Exeter host a series of events and conferences over the summer months.

The Sanctuary will then revert back to a student study area for the start of the next academic year.

Jess Gardner, Head of Library and Research Support, said: “We are delighted that The Sanctuary is open for our students to enjoy.  Students were involved in the design brief and naming the Sanctuary via focus groups last Autumn.  This led to a flexible layout with maximised study seats and a colourful look and feel using table top designs from Marrimeko, the designers whose chairs feature in La Touche Cafe in the Business School.”

The Sanctuary is part of the University’s current capital building programme that also includes the development of new learning and study spaces in the Forum and Amory.

The £48 million Forum development delivers a new Student Services Centre, retail and catering outlets, an extended and refurbished Library, new technology-rich learning spaces, a 400-seat lecture theatre, a landscaped piazza and a new University reception, ensuring the University of Exeter offers an outstanding experience for students.

The Forum is part of a £350 million development programme across the University’s campuses in Exeter and Cornwall.