Procurement of Calon Building – University of South Wales

The University of South Wales (USW) set out to deliver its most ambitious capital project to date: a £40m state of the art academic building known as Calon. Designed to support computing, engineering and technology disciplines, the new facility will host over 40 advanced teaching and research spaces, including robotics laboratories, hydraulics labs, a flight simulator, and virtual reality suites.

Situated on the Treforest Campus, the project represents a major milestone for the University, aligning with its mission to deliver innovative, future-focused learning environments while contributing to its wider commitment to sustainability and local economic growth. Calon’s procurement began in July 2023, with construction starting in January 2024 and completion planned for August 2026. As a flagship development, it required a procurement approach capable of balancing innovation, value for money, and longterm social impact.

USW delivered the Calon project through a structured and focused procurement strategy and tender process that, supported by early market engagement, helped attract knowledgeable and capable contractors, resulting in five highquality submissions.

A twostage design and build model was selected to integrate the successful contractor into the design process and maximise innovation and buildability. Central to the approach was the creation of a bespoke Social Value Matrix which enabled transparent evaluation and longterm monitoring of economic, social, and educational benefits.

In addition tailored training supported stakeholders new to procurement, embedding confidence and alignment. This adaptive, collaborative approach positioned procurement as a strategic enabler; translating complex technical ambitions into a robust, competitive tender that delivered both value and community impact.

The delivery of the Calon project has delivered transformative value for the University, the regional economy, and future learners. The winning contractor committed to reinvesting heavily in South Wales, resulting in £21m of verified social value outcomes, including £12m subcontracted to local SMEs and more than 50 new jobs and apprenticeships for residents.

In addition over 100 students gained hands on experience through embedded live learning opportunities, strengthening curriculum relevance across engineering, construction, and business disciplines.

The project has elevated procurement capability across USW, demonstrating procurement’s power as a strategic partner and embedding a legacy of improved commercial awareness and stakeholder collaboration. Beyond infrastructure, Calon has become a model of procurement excellence highlighting that major public projects can drive regional growth, enhance educational quality, and set new standards for social value delivery in Wales.