Work begins on final phase of University of Chester’s Kingsway buildings

Feb 11 2010 Chester Chronicle

THE final phase of building work is underway at Kingsway Buildings, to create a flat-roofed, three-storey teaching block, ground floor exhibition space and art gallery and sports changing rooms for the University of Chester - with some innovative 'green' features.

Underneath the £2.4 million scheme is ground source heating, which, as its name suggests, draws warmth from the temperature below the surface of the site, and a 'grey' water system, recycling rainwater from a large storage tank and pumping it into the toilets.

These, and other energy efficient initiatives, contribute towards its Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) 'very good' rating.

To make way for the steel-framed structure, which will link the catering facilities to the main buildings, two, small, existing buildings have been demolished and architects Design Group Chester have ensured the look of the extension is in keeping with other original buildings.

An enclosed courtyard will be landscaped to enable activities such as performance to take place and within the tutors' block there will be office and lecture accommodation, with a section for an artist in residence.

Single-storey changing rooms, next to the main buildings, will house male and female showers and facilities for people with disabilities.

The project, at the university’s Faculty of Arts and Media, is planned to take 35 weeks, with the top two floors ready for staff to move in during early September, in preparation for the new academic year.

Contractor Pochin Construction has written to residents to advise them of the latest developments and an information board will keep staff and students updated on progress.