The Board of Governors approved a budget of just over $32 million for the renovation of the former Windsor Star site to house the University’s social work and Centre for Executive and Professional Education programs at its meeting April 30.

The administration will tender a construction contract in the coming weeks, with a projected occupancy date in spring 2015.

Architect Craig Goodman said the renovations will retain key heritage elements of the existing buildings, while demolishing the interiors and constructing all new facilities behind the façades. The University has asked the city’s heritage committee to approve the replacement of the brick exterior of the former apartment building that fronts on Ferry Street. An assessment found significant concerns with its structural integrity.

When completed, the site will boast an area of 64,875 square feet for more than 800 students, faculty and staff. It will feature lecture halls, meeting rooms and offices, computer labs and a rooftop garden.

The Armouries and former bus depot sites, which will house the School for Arts and Creative Innovation, will be fully operational for fall 2015.