Work has just begun on a major refurbishment of the Wiltshire Building as part of the University’s Estate Masterplan.
Exciting changes are happening on campus — work has just begun on a major refurbishment of the Wiltshire Building as part of the University’s Estate Masterplan.
The building is being completely redesigned to create a modern, welcoming space for the Student Support Services and Inclusivity teams. Once finished, it’ll be a comfortable and accessible one stop shop for students to get all kinds of support and advice.
The revamp includes:
- A full interior makeover with new consultation rooms and office spaces
- Enhancements to improve energy efficiency
- A fresh, modern look that respects the building’s historic character
This project is part of the University’s ongoing investment in student wellbeing and inclusive spaces, and is expected to be completed by summer 2026.
The new designs incorporate features from the old building.
A bit of history
The Wiltshire Building has a fascinating past. It started life as a military drill hall in 1899 and was used by the 1st Hampshire Royal Engineers volunteers. It included an armoury, canteen and parade ground.
The building became part of the University in the late 1960s when it was known as the Portsmouth College of Technology. The hall was initially known as D Block and then named Wiltshire Building (after Wiltshire Street which runs along the edge of the site) in the mid-1970s. It has since been home to the Portsmouth Polytechnic School of Modern Languages (later the School of Languages and Area Studies) and later used by the University of Portsmouth School of Creative Arts, Film and Media before the construction of White Swan Building.
The building’s fixtures still include a clock inscribed to Major C. W. Bevis 1st Hampshire Royal Engineers volunteers.