Teesside University announce a £2.2m expansion of the Optometry Clinic

Napper Architects are working with Teesside University to provide a £2.2million expansion of their Optometry Clinic which is part of the University’s Integrated Care Academy (ICA). The ICA fosters health-related education and clinical innovation through multi and interdisciplinary approaches, collaboration with healthcare partners, and community involvement. As part of the ICA, the Health and Wellbeing Hub provides clinical services to the University and local community in areas including chiropractic, dental hygiene, sports therapy and rehabilitation, sport performance and health & wellness.

Designed across three floors, the new facility will serve a dual purpose: allowing more students to pursue careers in optometry while providing high-quality eye care to the local community. The ground floor will feature a welcoming reception and patient waiting area featuring a sensory zone to ensure an inclusive environment, specialist clinics, pre-screening zones and a dispensing clinic. The first floor will be a clinical teaching hub for first and second-year students, while the second floor will operate as a fully functional eye care clinic, where third-year students will work under the supervision of qualified professionals to deliver services to the public.

The North East faces a significant shortage of community optometry facilities, and this initiative helps bridge that divide. Teesside University’s initiative aims to alleviate some of this pressure by offering free services to the public, delivered by supervised students in a professional setting. The new building will open to students in September 2026.

“This expansion is a game-changer for both our students and the wider community. It allows us to train more future optometrists in a real-world clinical environment while addressing a critical gap in accessible eye care services.”
Professor Hannah Bartlett, Professor of Optometry and Inclusive Practice at Teesside University

“We are proud to be investing in facilities that not only elevate the quality of our teaching but also serve the public good. This development reflects our commitment to health equity and innovation in education. It’s a win-win for our students and the community.” 
Dr Ann French, Dean of the School of Health & Life Sciences