‘Much loved’ school of art saved from demolition
The University of Wolverhampton says it will press on with ongoing redevelopment plans, after its landmark creative arts building was granted grade two listed status.
The George Wallis building on St Patricks Ring Road in Wolverhampton, also known as the MK Building, became a well-known, if somewhat controversial, addition to the city’s skyline when it was completed in 1969.
Plans to tear down the nine-storey concrete structure were announced by the university in February as part of a review of its estate, which also saw the organisation’s Telford site closed, with courses relocated back to the main campus in the city.
The decision prompted an outcry from campaigners, with a change.org petition racking up 6,500 signatures in the space of several weeks as part of efforts to save the building from demolition.
One co-signer described the building, regarded as especially culturally significant for hosting the first National Black Art Convention in 1982, as a “beautiful brutalist building” which “holds a special place in every Wulfrunian heart”.
Those campaigners included architectural heritage group, the Twentieth Century Society, who submitted a request to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport to have the structure listed.
The announcement that the building had been granted protected status this morning (18 December) was greeted with delight by the organisation, who said it was an “exceptional example of a post-war art school” which was “much loved” by staff and students alike.
“Wolverhampton School of Art is a bold building that holds a prominent place in the centre of the city, and in the hearts of many locals,” said Deborah Williams, midlands regional director for Historic England.
“The striking Brutalist design, combined with the important social history of the British black art movement mean the building meets the high bar for post-war listing and I’m pleased DCMS agreed with our recommendation to recognise the significance of this distinctive piece of 20th-century history.”
The decision leaves the future of the building unclear, with a statement from the University of Wolverhampton confirming that it remained committed to its redevelopment programme – including vacating the school of art into a newly built facility known as the Housman Building.
“The University of Wolverhampton acknowledges the decision to provide grade two listed status to the George Wallis Building,” said a spokesperson.
“The University remains committed to its vision of delivering sustainable campuses that modernise facilities, reduces environmental impact, optimises space for teaching and research, and enhances the student experience.
“As part of this vision, we continue with the exciting opportunity to create a new, modern School of Creative Industries facility in the Housman Building in 2027, including the relocation of the School of Arts from the George Wallis Building.
“This will be a dynamic hub for creativity and innovation that empowers students to excel in design, media, filmmaking, and fashion.”
