The building and its external areas make up part of the Newcastle University Helix development which has regenerated 24-acres of former industrial land in the heart of Newcastle. The project utilises a holistic sustainable urban drainage system to manage water within the public realm space, dispersing rainwater and slowing surface water flow, enabling infiltration and reduction in flood risk. An attenuation tank was constructed along with a 4m wide and 2m deep drainage channel through the centre of the space to accommodate overflow from the attenuation tank and surface water flow. The turfed amphitheatre style seating has a dual purpose. The first being to encourage socialisation and second being to slow surface water flow and encourage infiltration.
