As an integral component to the development of a comprehensive Master Plan for the Brandon University Brandon Campus, the physical areas within the Campus’ buildings need be considered to achieve an understanding of the potential future build out plan. To support the development of the Plan, a Campus Space Planning study was undertaken to provide:

• An Existing Space Inventory, as database of existing University indoor space; and
• A Utilization Study, providing an understanding of use of campus teaching space.

In addition to the above, to further support the Campus Master Plan, the following was undertaken to help guide the implementation strategy for the Plan:

• Space Projections, translating enrolment data into component Space Projections.

The process included an inventory of the campus space, translating student FTE predictions into high-level space projections for teaching, research, administrative, student, central and support spaces, and reviewing the current utilization of teaching space.

Together, the three parts of the study collectively concluded that, when considering the total amount of existing net assignable area available for primary academic purposes, with the existing frequency of use of teaching rooms, and the occupancy of space therein, that the University has sufficient space to meet present Undergraduate and Graduate loading requirements.

However, while the total space allocation meets and exceeds industry standard space requirements per BU’s undergraduate and graduate enrolment numbers, there exists over and under allocation of that total space across components. This is particularly noted for the Research Laboratory category of space which is under allocated.

Looking ahead ten years into the future, inputting BU’s projected enrolments across Faculties and Schools, and anticipating that the University would take measures to reach industry standard utilization rates for its spaces, it is projected that the University will outgrow its current inventory of space in the Year 2025. It should be noted that this calculation does not factor in the existing life span or physical state of current buildings on campus. Further studies examining the Campus’ infrastructure from structural, mechanical and electrical perspectives are recommended, in addition to targeted functional programs that would address the specific strategic growth plans and requirements of each Faculty and School, as well as certain other important stakeholders including the University’s student body and affiliated services as well as the administration.