There has been pressure to improve the facilities after various problems over the years.

An investigation, carried out by the Sheffield Steel Press, found problems including asbestos, lift overcrowding, and daily maintenance issues such as the smell of sewage.

All windows in the 20 storey block are single-glazed, allowing some rain water through in heavy downpours.

Neil Cameron, Director of Estates at the University of Sheffield, admitted the tower is in desperate need of improvement.

"The University of Sheffield recognises that the Arts Tower is in need of refurbishment work in order to improve and enhance its facilities for the benefit of our staff and students," he said.

"The University fully appreciates that the Arts Tower is a listed building and will therefore work to ensure as far as possible that existing cladding features are retained in the redevelopment.

"This essentially means that the outside of the Arts Tower will remain quite similar in appearance.

"However this much needed refurbishment, particularly of the internal spaces, will help breathe new life into the landmark building for at least another 30 years."

Approximately 300 staff members and 2,500 students use the building daily – which was opened in 1966 by the Queen
Mother – so it's not surprising that some of the students are happy to be relocated.

Amy Pidwill, a second year Architecture student, said: "It's brilliant. The Arts Tower is in desperate need of refurbishment.

"It's freezing in the winter and boiling in the summer. I find it so annoying having to go up or down a floor just to go to the toilet."
When the work is complete the tower will be safer, warmer and have more disabled access.

The expectations of students and staff have increased in the last few years, with buildings like the Information Commons providing an excellent study environment.

Phil Smith, a second year English Language and Linguistics student, said: "It really needs to be updated. I'm looking forward to when it's done, but right now I try to avoid it outside of scheduled lectures. It's just a mess, and no suitable place to work."

Despite the Arts Tower cynics, there are some who don't think it's all bad. There are a total of nine different Facebook groups that pay homage to the monumental monstrosity.

The changes will not be visible from the outside as it is Grade II listed, and the paternoster is definitely staying.
. It is hoped the refurbishment will bring the Arts Tower into the 21st Century, leaving behind its 'Faulty Tower' alias.

This story is from the University of Sheffield's student paper Steel Press. Visit their webpage for more stories.