Bangor University has formally submitted a planning application to Gwynedd Council for the creation of the Albert Gubay Business School, a landmark development that will transform the historic Old Friars School site on Ffriddoedd Road.
The proposed development seeks permission to demolish the existing rear extensions and erect a new two-storey extension, together with internal alterations to the main listed building. Designed by DAY Architectural Ltd, the scheme aims to sensitively blend old and new architecture – preserving the character of the original 1899–1900 John Douglas building while providing modern, energy-efficient teaching and research facilities.
The new building will include two large lecture theatres, flexible teaching and social spaces, offices, a trading room, and landscaped grounds featuring new pedestrian links, cycle storage and parking areas.
The project is being made possible thanks to a £10.5 million donation from the Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation – the largest single gift in Bangor University’s history. The funding will support both the restoration of the historic structure and the construction of the new extension, creating a flagship facility that reflects Albert Gubay’s entrepreneurial viion and enduring support for education in Wales.
Born in Rhyl, Albert Gubay (1928–2016) was the founder of the Kwik Save supermarket chain and one of Britain’s most generous philanthropists. He pledged to donate half his wealth to charity, later transferring nearly his entire £480 million estate to the Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation, which continues to fund community, faith, and educational projects across the UK and Ireland.
A Pre-Application Consultation Report, submitted with the planning documents, details how Bangor University and DAY Architectural consulted with residents, local organisations and specialist bodies between 8 August and 19 September 2025. A public drop-in event was held at the Pontio Building, and consultation boards were displayed both in person and online.
Although community feedback was limited, one former pupil of Friars School commended the University’s respect for the original architecture and suggested that the building’s educational heritage be commemorated through an interpretation panel – an idea the design team has pledged to explore further.
The proposed Business School will achieve an EPC ‘A’ rating, incorporating solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and enhanced accessibility and sustainable travel links. The development will not only provide state-of-the-art facilities for staff and students but will also help preserve and revitalise a cherished part of Bangor’s built heritage.
Full details of the application can be viewed on Gwynedd Council’s planning portal (Application ID: 36621) and via the Bangor University campus development page at bangor.ac.uk/campus-services/campus-development
