College Property Consultancy

Role of a College Property Consultant

Role of a College Property Consultant

Further Education and Sixth Form Colleges rarely employ specialist staff who can manage major building projects on top of their existing roles. The work involved in the preparation of even a small funding application is considerable so it is often desirable to employ a consultant for all or part of the time. Their role is that of a College Property Consultant or Strategic Property Advisor. They can also undertake a lot of the property analysis that is needed to support any case for a new or refurbished building.

Educational objectives

The first task of the College Property Consultant is to review the College's educational objectives and provide general guidance in relation to local, regional and national priorities. There is little point in trying to create a case for funding a new building project if it goes against the stated national or regional funding priorities. Equally it is possible for a college to develop new or existing areas of expertise if they are in line with local or regional needs.

Once the College's strategic objectives have been assessed the next step is to review and analyse existing space utilisation data. As long as the buildings are in reasonable condition, then it may be possible to refurbish underutilised parts to make way for alternative uses. However, if the current condition is poor, then a decision will be needed on whether to keep or to dispose of a building altogether. If the whole of the current estate is crowded, then there is a case for adding new buildings or leasing additional accommodation elsewhere.

Space model

The best way to demonstrate the need for a particular amount of space is to develop a space model showing the most efficient options for the delivery of the curriculum. This can take place after full space utilisation survey has been carried out that demonstrates how much the current buildings are used and what types of space are required. The creation of the space model involves calculating the areas and occupancy levels of each of the different types of general purpose and specialist space required.

When the space model is compared with the existing accommodation in a College and the future strategic objectives are considered, then a number of possible options can be generated. The gaps between the current accommodation and that required to deliver the future curriculum give rise to a number of possible development opportunities. However, they may not all be as economically advantageous as each other. This is when full investment appraisals are required.

Option Analysis

Each option has to be subjected to a detailed financial and qualitative analysis to determine which will be the best option for the College to adopt. The College Property Consultant will undertake the investment appraisal, considering both the costs and affordability of each option and their effect upon the cash flow of the institution. Only then can the work on the design, planning and funding applications begin.

College Property Consultancy

By: David Turner

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