BNU ‘on track’ to reopen Brunel Engine Shed in early 2025
Buckinghamshire New University shared its plans to take over High Wycombe’s historic Brunel Engine Shed last year, and with final planning approval now confirmed by Buckinghamshire Council, it’s full steam ahead for the new community space to open in early 2025.
The former railway shed provides commuters’ first glimpse of High Wycombe when arriving by train, and the University plans to develop the space into a welcoming hub for the community and its visitors.
The café and gallery space will pay homage to the town’s rich history and will be open to the public. Plans for the space include a hireable events space, exhibition space, and space for learning and teaching. All developed with a focus on design, arts and heritage.
The Grade II listed building, designed by Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1854, was refurbished by Bucks Council, though still requires some interior work by BNU before it can open. Following the Council’s restoration works, which included alterations to windows and a new extension, BNU will fit-out the space with underfloor heating systems, power, data and audio-visual systems, solar panels, and furnishings, over the next few months, with works being carried out by ODGroup.
Maintaining the original character and honouring the heritage of the site continues to be the top priority for both BNU and Buckinghamshire Council. BNU also intends to make the space sustainable, by using recycled and reclaimed materials and efficient systems, which will help to minimise the carbon footprint and cost to operate the space.
Cabinet member for accessible housing and resources at the Council, John Chilver, said: “The existing building has been sympathetically restored to reflect its historic past.
“The original Engine Shed has been fitted with a new slate roof in keeping with its original Victorian character and the original timber queen post trusses designed by Brunel have been sensitively repaired.”
The takeover comes as part of BNU’s ongoing civic work, which has been outlined in the University’s recently released Public and Civic Engagement Strategy. As well as its heritage contributions to the town through the development of the engine shed, the University plans to conduct research which illuminates and helps address community needs, encourage community contributions towards a more sustainable environment and work with communities to make them more equitable and inclusive.
Vice-Chancellor of BNU, Professor Nick Braisby, said: "We are proud of the university’s contribution to High Wycombe from retraining ex-servicemen after the First World War in furniture-making and upholstery through to current times as we strive to make a difference in our local communities by tackling food and hygiene poverty, boosting literacy rates, and championing diversity.
"We are delighted to be working in partnership with the council to bring this wonderful building back to life and provide the local community with a new space to meet, showcase art and culture, and support businesses to promote economic growth. BNU will respect the building’s heritage in all that we do and ensure that the Brunel Engine Shed is a welcoming and fitting addition for the town and its visitors."
Mark Yates, Project Director at ODInteriors said: "Being the main contractor and leading the restoration of the historic Grade II listed engine shed is an exciting opportunity for us. This project is unique, requiring us to preserve the building’s heritage while integrating cutting-edge sustainability features, aligning with our commitment to environmental responsibility. Aiming for a SKA Gold rating, we’re focused on delivering a fit out that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. It’s a truly memorable project, and we’re proud to be bringing BNU’s vision to life."
BNU has invested considerably in its estate over the past three years, with its state-of-the-art High Wycombe Campus development unveiled last year.
The University recently ranked first in London and the South-East for facilities spend in the Complete University Guide 2025, with student satisfaction also rising to 8th in the UK as a result.