Space Planning

We carry out a wide range of architectural and other studies to support the better use of space in the estate, including:

• measurement of space utilisation in teaching spaces
• working with departments to optimise the use of space
• investigation of space requirements as part of the Capital Projects Process

The space requirements of User Departments are analysed prior to schemes being delegated to the Major Projects or Minor Works groups for implementation. Information is provided to the University’s Space Management Sub-Committee for consideration.  Further information is provided on the Academic and Financial Planning and Analysis website here.

The Space Data team is responsible for the information held on the University's live space database Micad, as well as keeping an up to date record of all the CAD drawings/floor plans of the University's buildings.

We work with the Programme Board for Education Space whose mission is to improve the use and management of spaces for teaching, studying, and sitting examinations across the University. 

Guidance on viewing and managing our space data is provided below. If you require further information or have any queries, please contact the team at:-

Space data audits and surveys

It is the responsibility of Faculties and Departments to notify the Space data team of any inaccuracies in the data and any changes to the size, type, or use of space. Departments are also asked to participate in an annual audit to ensure that the records held on our Micad space management system are accurate and up to date. The space data/CAD team also carry out a number of surveys on buildings across the estate throughout the year. Please contact the Space data team if you would like to arrange a space survey.

Space Information and Guidance

• Building Information - floor plans, building codes, room names, occupancy details, etc. are held on the Micad system.
• Requests for additional space or to release space - information are provided on the Academic and Financial Planning and Analysis website.
• Space guidelines - the University's space guidelines (revised June 2019).
• Room Uses guide - this guide is a list of Room Uses which the University uses to categorise the type of rooms that are used for Teaching, Research and Support. The standard list of room uses also enables the University to benchmark with other institutions and their reporting structure.
• Sharing space with third parties (embedded space) - guidance is provided on the Academic and Finance Planning and Analysis website.