Graham Construction to deliver £2.1m library refurb for Chester university

The University of Chester has chosen Graham Construction to deliver the multi-million pound second phase of its main library refurb project.

Graham Construction, which has its northern base in Salford, secured the £2.1m works following the successful handover of phase one at Seaborne Library.

Work on phase two includes the construction of a two-level extension to the existing building, adding new study, library and administration space.

Externally, Graham Construction will realign the adjacent highway and create additional parking and delivery spaces.

Gary Hughes, the firm’s regional director for the North of England, said: “After successfully completing phase one of the project on time and within budget, the university invited us to negotiate the second phase.

“Our extensive knowledge of the project, and collaborative approach with the university, meant that we were awarded the opportunity to conclude the building works, which are now under way.”

He added: “We look forward to completing this final stage of the project and handing over a modernised library which is still sympathetic to the building’s original features.”

Graham Construction is currently working on a number of academic and residential projects across the North, including the University of Salford’s £81m Peel Park Quarter and Sheffield Hallam University’s Heart of the Campus development.

The University of Chester’s senior executive director of learning and information services, Brian Fitzpatrick, said: “We are happy to continue to work with Graham Construction from phase one to phase two of this project.

“The extension continues our investment in learning services to student and will provide a greatly enhanced library, study and learning environment.”