France's University of Lorraine and Eiffage have signed a PPP agreement for the development of a biology health centre in Nancy.

This project includes two new buildings with a total area of 14,800 m2, a microstructural and mechanics of materials research laboratory (LEM3) and a mathematics, IT and mechanical engineering training and research unit. It will provide modern and functional premises for 1,200 personnel and students at Metz science and technology park (Technopôle de Metz) by the beginning of the school year in 2017.

The project will be developed on a design, build, finance, operation and maintenance (DBFOM) basis.

The concession contract will have a period of 25 years plus two years to construct the facilities and the total project investment is estimated at €52.4 million (US$58.3 million).

With its 60 laboratories and 46 training units, the University of Lorraine has a total of nearly 7,000 personnel and takes in more than 52,000 students a year.