Pascall+Watson’s design for Brunel University has received planning approval from Hillingdon District Council.

Brunel University are proposing to develop the third phase of the Advanced Metals Casting Centre facility for the research institute Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST). The design is one of a bespoke series of research facilities in the pursuit of advancements in metals technology.

Pascall+Watson’s work with BCAST has assisted the university in securing funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Innovate UK, the Higher Education Funding Council for England and industrial partners, and is part of our ongoing contribution to the development of their campus.

The purpose of the BCAST facilities is to assist with connectivity and communication of the fundamental research and industrial applications in addition to releasing space and enhancing the landscaping within the central campus location.

The proposal aims to achieve a 0.3 urban greening factor, which is achieved through extensive landscaping, green walls and a green roof. The project incorporates four key elements:

1. A single storey building housing advanced electron microscopes, scanning and x ray equipment
2. Modification and refurbishment to the existing Gardiner building
3. A new prototype manufacturing workshop
4. New, extensive landscape areas including a new academic square, carparking and landscaped pathways

BCAST research progresses high performance light alloys and resource efficient processing technologies in order to future proof the UK’s automotive sector by meeting the long- and mid-term needs of the industry.