FAQs for:
HUB frequently asked questions
Because the HUB project is evolving the project teams do not have 'all' the answers yet. However, here are some of the most common. If you have any other questions not answered here, please contact us and we'll try to supply an answer.
HUB project links
Project questions
What is the core objective of the HUB project?
To provide outstanding, well integrated services for students, staff, prospective students and external customers, delivered consistently from the perspective of the service user
How will the core objective be achieved?
Through the relocation of student services (International & Postgraduate Services, Recruitment Admissions and Participation Service, Careers Service and Registry) a well thought out business process design and development plan, creation of a Student Services Centre and web based self service for as many services as possible.
What services will be located in the HUB building?
International and Postgraduate Service, Recruitment Admissions and Participation Service, Careers Service, Registry, a Bookstore, GP/pharmacy and Cafe.
What is the project timeline for the HUB?
Planning began in October 2005 and construction began in July 2007 with a completion date of Autumn/winter 2008.
Who is the architect for the HUB project?
Who is the interior designer for the HUB project?
Why is the building to be renovated and not demolished?
The University and architects recognized the utility and simplicity of the original building form and felt that by embracing the University's new green standards policy it was possible to provide a new identity for the HUB that fits into the centre of the campus and embraces the reutilization of as much as possible.
Will the current HUB change much?
The architects have designed new glass windows for the exterior of the HUB to permit more light into the building. A larger building footprint will permit more office space and provide new entrances facing the library and Southpark Avenue. The basement will be converted into accessible space for more student services and a rooftop level will house staff workshop rooms.
What is the working place going to look like?
The HUB services floor will hold an open plan office space.
Is there enough room for all staff in all services?
Yes, the HUB provides:
- 1,850m2 student support space
- 1,400m2 catering space
- 705m2 commercial space
- 3,955 sq m total usable space.
Is it planned to integrate the services?
The new HUB provides an opportunity to design service operations from a student/customer perspective. This approach pulls together the Front Line delivery of student services into a single location and requires the integration of services to achieve a customer focus.
Will the SRC relocate to the HUB?
No. The SRC (including the Advice Centre and Secondhand Bookshop) will remain in the John McIntyre Building.
Will the McMillan Reading Room be 'part' of the Hub project?
The McMillan Reading Room is a listed building and may not be altered. However, the HUB project seeks to integrate a better relationship between the HUB, Reading Room and Library to form a 'Heart of the Campus'.
When will the building be open?
We expect to have a phased opening through Autumn/winter 2008.
How do I contact the HUB project team?
FAQs for students
What is the HUB?
The iconic HUB building, located at the heart of the campus, is to be redeveloped to house a central "One Stop Shop" pulling together our wide range of front-line student services. So you will be able to access advice there on registration, fees, careers...... instead of trailing round all the different buildings.
The new HUB will offer easy access to a variety of student services, coffee bars, a food court with seating for 400, a bookstore, GP practice and a pharmacy.
When will the HUB open?
The project is scheduled to finish by the end of 2008.
Who runs the HUB?
The University provides this service for students.
What’s going to be in the HUB?
Many things! For complete details see the section of this website.
Will there be a shop/food/café?
The HUB will have a food court, with seating for 400, comprising self-service sit-down facilities with a variety of meal options. When possible, locally sourced fresh produce and fair trade items will be made available. The University's food outlets have recently won accreditation by Eat Scotland, and have receved a Sunflower Award from the Vegan Society.
There will also be a coffee bar, where you can relax with friends over coffee, or pick up a quick snack and a drink to go. There will also be a bookstore, GP practice and a pharmacy.
What are the opening hours?
The opening hours will be flexible, to match student needs. Exact times are not finalised as yet, but it is envisaged that the HUB may open as early as 8am for breakfasts, and serve food till late if there is sufficient demand.
Will it be fully accessible?
Yes. Every level is 100% disability accessible.
Where is the HUB?
The HUB is directly across from the University Library and behind the McMillan Round Reading Room, right in the centre of the campus.
Will there be access to it from the library? (Like a bridge or something?)
No. You'll still have to leave the Library building to access the HUB. The project does improve pedestrian flow between the Library, Round Reading Room and HUB, and you will see a new piazza space around the building, which will be perfect for outdoor studying or socialising.
Will it have a computing cluster or wifi?
The HUB will only have touch-down resource computers for assistance with student enquiries and information when you visit services on Level 2. There won't be a computing cluster. However, the building is expected to have wifi, so you could use your laptop whilst enjoying a coffee.
How do I get into it? (Where is the door?)
There are two entrances. One facing the Library just off Hillhead Street, and a new entrance behind the McMillan Reading Room off Southpark Avenue.
Will the HUB be licensed?
No, but the QMU, GUU and Hetherington Research Club are close by for refreshments.
Can I register with the HUB’s GP?
Yes - full details will be available when the HUB is due to open in 2008.
Will there be a bank?
No. While the new HUB will not have banking facilities, the project team is working hard to provide services such as an ATM and cash back facilities within the building.
Can you get info on all student services from the HUB?
Yes. Level 2 will contain an innovative resource area to provide information on 100% of student services. However, for services not located in the HUB you'll still need to visit their office or front desk directly for appointments and detailed information.
Can student book out rooms? (i.e. clubs and societies?)
No. Meeting spaces are provided for the services throughout the building. The rooms will be quite busy with activity, from Careers Service interviews to staff meetings and cross-team work. However, students may book nearby facilities in the QMU, GUU and SRC buildings for events. Contact them directly for details.
Will it sell fair-trade products?
The University is proud of its Fair Trade accreditation, and will offer fair trade goods. The food on offer will also be locally sourced and freshly prepared, wherever possible.
Is the HUB open to the public?
Yes. The building will not require card access.
Will there be student discounts?
There will be a variety of discount schemes considered, including a student 'loyalty card', and advance purchase meal-deal swipe cards. More details will be available nearer opening time.
Will the McMillan Reading Room be open while the HUB is being renovated?
No - for safety reasons it is closed until October 2007.
Will there be a beer Garden on the roof?
No. This is an urban myth. There are no plans for any roof-top venues.
Will there be student employment opportunities in the HUB?
There may be opportunities for working in the HUB. The individual services will make announcements and hire for available positions related to their duties.
Level 1 FAQs
As a student, may I book the Level 1 meeting areas for study space or a group/club event?
No. Level 1 meeting spaces are provided for the services on Level 2. The area will be quite busy with activity from Careers Service interviews to staff meetings and cross-team work. However, students may book nearby facilities in the QMU, GUU and SRC buildings for events. Contact them directly for details.
Will the GP be open to the public or just students?
The GP will be a NHS facility and normal NHS catchment rules will apply.
Will the GP include a pharmacy?
Yes it will.
Will there be a bank on this, or any level of the HUB?
No. While the new HUB will not have banking facilities the project team is working hard to provide services such as an ATM and cash back facilities within the building.
May I purchase stationery supplies at the bookstore?
Yes. The bookstore will offer a small selection of necessary stationery, pens and University student supplies.
Level 2 FAQs
Will Registration now occur in the HUB?
Registration during Freshers' Week will continue to be held in the University Main Building as always. There are no plans to move Registration to the HUB. After the main Registration period, other Registry functions will take place in the HUB. The Registry will make clear any such changes.
Will I go to the HUB for lost student ID card replacement?
Yes. The Student Services Centre will handle replacements of lost student ID cards. It will be located on Level 2.
Level 3 FAQs
How many people will the Cafe seat?
The Cafe has a variety of seating arrangements for 400 people. Whether you are popping in for a fast bite after a long study in the Library or as a study group of eight people, the Cafe will have seating to accommodate all.
Will the Cafe serve Fair Trade products?
Yes! Following the University's Fair Trade Policy, the Cafe will provide all the Fair Trade products currently found elsewhere on campus. The food, when and where possible, will also be locally sourced to ensure a small carbon footprint.
Will the Cafe replace the one currently in 1A The Square?
No. The new facility will not replace 1A The Square.
Will the Cafe be a licensed facility?
No. But there still are licensed facilities in the QMU, GUU and Hetherington Research Club.
Level 4 FAQs
As a student, may I book the Level 4 meeting areas for study space or a group/club event?
No. Level 4 is specifically designed as a staff work area and is not available for student groups, clubs and events. However, students may book nearby facilities in the QMU, GUU and SRC buildings for events. Contact them directly for details.
Will there be lift access to Level 4?
Yes. The design of the building makes all floors accessible.
