[dropcap]The[/dropcap] estimated €14 development plans on the DCU Student Centre, The Hub, has commenced and are due to be completed for semester two of the academic year 2017-18.
The construction work began in late June, as undergraduate students finished up their academic year.
A new four storey space in the centre of the Glasnevin campus is to replace what was once Spar, DCUfm, and Old Bar. The new purpose-built space is due to facilitate students’ social, cultural, global engagement, and entrepreneurial activities.
Some offices and services have been relocated within the Hub. DCUfm has moved to the Students’ Union meeting room three. The hairdressers has moved from upstairs to downstairs, adjacent to the book shop.
One of the major changes that is evident as a result of the reconstruction is the relocation of Spar. The Venue, once home to major DCU clubs and societies events, has been renovated to facilitate the store.
DCU clubs and societies days on the Glasnevin campus have traditionally been held in The Venue every year. A marquee, the DCUSU Arena, has been erected outside the Hub to facilitate Freshers’ Week and clubs & societies events over the coming weeks.
“The SU initially approached the University to see if this was a possibility and all University staff have been supportive and helped with any necessary regulatory procedures,” said Una Redmond, Office of Student Life Manager.
Clubs & societies will need to look for alternative venues, both on and off campus, due to the inaccessibility of The Venue. Other options students may look into this year include St. Patrick’s College campus, All Hallows campus, classrooms, The Mezz, NuBar, and The Helix.
“Clubs and socs in DCU are strong and vibrant enough to not allow this impact on them negatively. It will be a little challenging but students have a wonderful ability,” Redmond said.
Hayley Halpin
Image Credit: Rebecca Lumley
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