The University of St Andrews has taken a significant step forward in its major plans to redevelop the distinctive and historically significant former Madras College school building in central St Andrews.

This week, the University submitted a full planning application to Fife Council for the renovation of the existing building and the construction of new facilities on the site.

This follows an application for Listed Building Consent submitted earlier this year. Subject to approval, initial works, valued at £6 million, are slated to commence in summer 2025, focusing on essential stonework and roof repairs, as well as window replacement.

Once completed, the ambitious project, named 'New College,’ will serve as the new home for the St Andrews Business School, encompassing the Schools of Economics and Finance, and Management. It will also accommodate the University’s internationally renowned School of International Relations.

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The development plan preserves the building’s original façade and the former school quad, which will be protected by a new glass roof to safeguard the underlying sandstone pillars. Beyond academic spaces, New College is designed to include community facilities such such as a café and changing places toilet facilities, fostering wider community engagement.

Demolition works to remove dilapidated 1960s and 1970s buildings at the rear of the former Madras College site in South Street were completed in 2022 and early 2023, clearing the way for the new construction. Award-winning architectural firm WilkinsonEyre was appointed in December 2022 to produce the designs for this flagship project.

The total development cost is estimated at £140 million, with a substantial portion to be resourced through the University’s 'Making Waves’ fundraising campaign, engaging St Andrews alumni and supporters. To date, philanthropic leadership has committed £42 million, including a £5 million donation from the Garfield Weston Foundation, the largest cash gift received for 'New College'.

Principal Professor Dame Sally Mapstone, who is spearheading the project, said: "New College is part of our £300 million Making Waves fundraising campaign in support of our world-leading ambitions. Despite the challenging financial circumstances currently facing the Higher Education sector, St Andrews recognises the importance of investing in projects like New College that will not only create an inclusive and inspiring educational space but also bring tangible benefits for the St Andrews and Fife community, as well as wider society."

The former secondary school building and grounds were acquired from Fife Council in 2021, after Madras College relocated to a new purpose-built facility in August of that year.