The scheme has been designed by Grafton Architects and a contractor is due to be confirmed within weeks.
Kingston University’s Director of Estates Sean Woulfe said: “Local people and heritage groups have responded very warmly to this project.
“The design reflects the University’s intention to engage with the public and open up learning opportunities for everyone. The colonnade draws people in and the lively landscaped terraces showcase the University’s learning activities to everyone passing by on this key gateway to the town centre.”
Grafton Director Shelley McNamara said: “There is clearly a collective vision at Kingston University for a refreshingly open and innovative learning environment as well as for how the architecture of the new building will house and represent this vision.”
Once completed, the proposals will provide three new public landscaped areas as well as 9,027 square metres of learning space including; a modern learning resources centre over several floors, a 300-seat multi-media auditorium, rehearsal and performance space for the University’s popular dance courses and a café and other informal learning spaces.