ONE of the University of Worcester's buildings has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.

The University Arena is one of three nominations in the ‘Buildings that Inspire’ category in the Guardian University Awards.

Mick Donovan, head of the University’s Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, said: “We are thrilled that the University Arena has been recognised in this way. The transformation of a formerly derelict site into a truly world-class sporting arena is something which the University is rightfully proud of.

“The University has always had a strong focus in inclusive sport, and we are delighted that the University Arena has been able to build on this success, removing the barriers to sport participation and offering elite athletes, community members and students the chance to develop their love and passion for sport.”

The Buildings that Inspire award was open to entries from universities across the country, and aims to find the projects that have ‘positively enhanced the student and/or staff experience on campus, whether through a new build or a redevelopment’.

The Arena, which opened in 2013, is the country’s first indoor sporting venue designed specifically to meet the needs of wheelchair athletes.

International netball, basketball and wheelchair basketball fixtures, along with national championships in badminton and taekwondo, have been staged at the venue, which is also home to the Worcester Wolves.

The University Arena is the training base for Great Britain’s wheelchair basketball teams and, later this year, will host the sport’s European Championships.