World University of Design and University of Huddersfield awarded ₹40 Million grant for Heritage Post Office Study

The World University of Design (WUD) in India, along with the University of Huddersfield in the UK, has received a substantial grant of ₹40 million from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

This funding will support a pioneering project aimed at examining the heritage and future use of post office buildings in both countries.

The initiative, set to run until December 2026, seeks to employ state-of-the-art architectural scanning technologies to study these historical structures and their cultural significance.

This collaborative effort will involve multiple partners, including the Postal Museum of London and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

Through 3D scanning and co-creative research, the project will develop visual models of British-era post offices and uncover the stories of those who worked there, both in India and the UK.

According to Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of WUD, the project not only aims to preserve these architectural treasures but also aligns with India’s broader objectives for urban renewal, cultural exchange, and tourism.

"This initiative will boost international collaborations and elevate India's role in the creative industries, while also contributing to significant cultural heritage projects like HRIDAY and Dekho Apna Desh,” he noted.

Professor Nic Clear and Rowan Bailey of the University of Huddersfield will lead the architectural and cultural research, respectively, using innovative tools to engage with site narratives and explore how these buildings can be repurposed in modern urban landscapes.

By preserving these structures, the project supports both countries' long-term goals, fostering a deeper cultural understanding while promoting tourism and urban renewal.

The study also ties in with India's Smart City and Digital India visions, demonstrating how technology can transform heritage conservation efforts into active community hubs.