A UNIVERSITY is to demolish a debating chamber as part of a campus revamp.

The concrete construction, on King's Road between the Union Society and the Museum of Antiquities at the University of Newcastle, is to be flattened next month.

The chamber, which bears the university's coat of arms on each side, was built in 1964, the same time as the University refectory.

However, for some years it has been regarded by many as an eyesore.

A masterplan, designed by architects Sir Terry Farrell and Partners, contains new designs for the campus.

Four quadrangles will be created, to enhance the setting of the university buildings and faculties. Pedestrian routes will be improved to reinforce the relationship between the university and its neighbours.

To enable the work to be carried out, Kings Road is likely to be closed in that area for about eight weeks.

The road below the chamber will be fenced off, creating a no through road. Pedestrians and wheelchair-users will need an alternative route.

Work is due to start on July 7. However, no work will take place during congregations between July 9 and 12.