ID202 Bringing Keele Hall Back to the Heart of the Campus and Student Experience

The Idea

Keele Hall should be re-established as the defining centre of the University — a shared space that every student engages with throughout their time at Keele. 

Keele Hall was the original home of the University when it was founded in 1949, and remains one of the most distinctive and historically significant buildings in the sector. However, it is currently underused and in need of substantial investment. 

This idea would transform Keele Hall into a fully accessible, high-quality, multi-purpose space that plays a central role in teaching, student experience, community activity and key moments in the University journey. Every student would use the Hall during their time at Keele, creating a shared institutional experience rooted in place, history and identity. 

A major and imaginative refurbishment would be required, particularly to address the building’s significant accessibility challenges. The Hall’s split-level design, staircases and limited lift access currently prevent full and inclusive use. The ambition would be to ensure that every room and every floor can be accessed by every student, while preserving the character and heritage of the building. 

Why This Idea Should Be Considered

Very few universities have a building of the scale, quality and historical significance of Keele Hall, yet this asset is not currently being used to its full potential. 

At a time when universities are seeking to differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive and uncertain environment, place and identity matter more than ever. A strong sense of belonging and shared experience is critical for student satisfaction, engagement and long-term alumni connection. 

At the same time, expectations around accessibility and inclusion have rightly increased. Buildings that are not fully accessible are no longer acceptable as central components of the student experience. Addressing this challenge directly would demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusion. 

There is also a growing opportunity to engage alumni in meaningful ways. Many former students have a strong emotional attachment to Keele Hall, making it a powerful focal point for philanthropic giving. 

This idea positions Keele Hall not as a legacy building, but as a central, living part of the University’s future. 

How We Would Implement This Idea

1. Accessibility-Led Refurbishment: A comprehensive redevelopment plan to resolve structural accessibility barriers, including new lift access, reconfigured circulation and inclusive design across all spaces. 
2. Reimagining Use of Space: Redesign of the Hall to support a mix of teaching, student, civic and ceremonial uses, ensuring it becomes a high-frequency, high-impact space. 
3. Student Experience Integration: Integration of Keele Hall into the student journey — from induction and teaching to events and milestone moments — ensuring universal engagement. 
4. Philanthropic Campaign: A targeted fundraising campaign centred on restoring Keele Hall, leveraging alumni attachment to the building and positioning it as a legacy project for future generations. 

What Success Would Look Like

• Universal student engagement: Every student uses Keele Hall as part of their academic and wider university experience. 
• Full accessibility: The building becomes fully accessible to all students, staff and visitors. 
• Enhanced student experience: Stronger sense of belonging, identity and pride in the University. 
• Alumni engagement and giving: Significant philanthropic support linked to the restoration of the Hall. 
• Sector distinctiveness: Keele becomes recognised for making one of the UK’s most historic university buildings central to a modern, inclusive student experience.