Wynne Construction, which built the £850,000 structure, has won the commercial sector category within Chester at this year’s Cheshire Built-In Quality Awards, which highlights outstanding quality in construction work relating to building control.

The Building, located at the University of Chester’s Parkgate Road campus, has replaced the 1960s-built De Bunsen building, which no longer provided enough facilities for the increasing number of students studying at the University.

Designed by Chester-based architects, Design Group, the Building is spread across two floors and is energy efficient. It houses a new Students’ Union shop along with additional accommodation for clubs' and societies' representatives.

Offices for the Sabbatical Officers and a meeting space for the executive team occupy the upstairs area.

On winning the Award, Managing Director of Wynne Construction, Chris Wynne, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have won this award following our nomination by Chester City Council, and believe it highlights our ongoing commitment to the education sector and also our growth in the Cheshire and North West region.

“Wynne Construction has implemented a number of key initiatives during the past year, involving supply chain management, health and safety, and people development. The success of this project is a fitting tribute to the hard work of all the team involved."

With work starting in January 2007, the build took less than a year to finish, completing in September.

The University’s Project Manager, Roger Nock, added: “During construction, we had to address a number of issues; we had to maintain access to the bar and Halls of Residence and keep noise levels to a minimum, so not to impact on those living nearby.

“The whole building process went very smoothly, and that is down to a great team effort by everyone involved. The result is a flexible building, which meets all the needs of those using it.”

President of Chester Students’ Union, Steve Westgarth, commented: “The new building is a fantastic asset to the Students’ Union. It has allowed us to expand and develop the services and facilities available, which has been widely welcomed by the students.”