University Advances with New College Plan Project

On 14 January, 2026, Fife Council approved plans to redevelop the former Madras College school building on South Street, clearing the way for a new academic hub that will house the University of St Andrews Business School and School of International Relations.

The project, known as New College, has been stated as a strategically significant investment at a time of mounting financial pressure across the higher education sector for the University. In a statement to The Saint, a University spokesperson said the redevelopment would have benefits extending well beyond the two schools it will accommodate: “[...] it will not only take forward teaching and research but unlock the capacity needed to facilitate vital development and modernisation of other areas of the University.” 

The University emphasised that the project is not intended to increase student numbers. Rather, they said, it will expand the institution's ability to serve its current population while allowing for the temporary relocation and refurbishment of existing facilities elsewhere on campus.

“We have no plans to increase student numbers,” the spokesperson said. “This development will increase the capacity we have to cater for our existing level of student population, while giving us flexibility to decant and modernise in other areas.”

New College forms part of the University’s £300 million Making Waves fundraising campaign, which is aimed at supporting long-term institutional priorities. Despite what the spokesperson described as “financial headwinds” facing universities across the United Kingdom, St Andrews has argued that continued investment in major projects remains essential.

“St Andrews recognises it is vital to invest in landmark projects that will not only create an inclusive and inspiring educational space but also bring tangible benefits to the local community and help safeguard the future of the University,” said the spokesperson.

With planning permission now secured, the project awaits final approval from the University Court to release funding. The University has already received £950,000 from Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund, which will support a programme of conservation and sustainability upgrades at the site. These include roof and stonework repairs, as well as the refurbishment of original sash windows using cutting-edge vacuum glazing technology.

“All these measures, in addition to the investment we are making, signal our clear intention to ensure a sustainable future for our students, staff and the town,” the spokesperson stated.

The University has also underscored the importance of preserving the historic character of the former Madras College building, which they described as a landmark within the St Andrews and North East Fife community. The architectural firm WilkonsonEyre has been appointed to lead this design, with an emphasis on retaining the site’s historic frontage while delivering a modern academic facility.

“Preserving the historic frontage of the site and providing a modern, world-class development is precisely why we appointed WilkinsonEyre,” the spokesperson said. “[Their] designs have taken great care to respect and enhance the heritage of the site.”

Image by Louisa Willan