STUDENTS have been tasked with redesigning the interior of a century-old building in Knutsford.

Barclays offered Art and Design students from Priestly College the opportunity to consider what changes they could make to Radbroke Hall to increase its appeal to entrepreneurs and start-up business.

Radbroke Hall, which takes its names from Red Brook stream which runs through the grounds, was built between 1914 and 1917 for Manchester businessman Claude Hardy and his wife Olga.

Since 1972, the building, which was designed by architect Percy Worthington, has been used as offices and meeting rooms by Barclays.

“We have made a number of improvements to the facilities on the site over the years and Radbroke Hall itself is something we want to make better use of,” said Julian Bucknall, of Barclays.

“We gave Priestley students the opportunity to develop some innovative and inspiring ways to transform the Grade II listed building.”

The task, which formed part of the coursework, gave the students the opportunity to work with a real business on a detailed brief with deadlines.

The students were asked what changes they would make to rooms and communal spaces in the original house on the 64-acre campus to create a sense of collaboration and innovation amongst entrepreneurs if they were to occupy the space.

“We have to thank Barclays for giving our students the opportunity to work with a global bank on a live brief,” said tutor Paul McConnell.

“It is invaluable experience and an amazing achievement for our students to have on their university applications and CVs.”