Member Article

Multiple firms on board to deliver two major construction projects for Durham University

Durham University has appointed a number of businesses, including a global construction consultancy, to provide turnkey services for two major builds vital to the research centre’s future operations.

Independent professional services company Turner & Townsend, together with architects Faulkner Brown, engineer Buro Happold, landscape architect LUC and planning consultant DPP One, has been selected to take on the entire responsibility from design through completion and commissioning of the two schemes.

The Uni revealed that its new Centre for Teaching and Learning at Lower Mountjoy will be a world-class facility, which houses state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities including lecture theatres, teaching rooms, seminar rooms, education labs for developing new teaching and training methods, student learning zones and catering facilities.

The second project is the enhanced Maiden Castle Sports Park, set to feature a new 3G football/rugby pitch and two new water-based hockey pitches to be finished by autumn 2018.

Both projects are part of the Durham University Estate Masterplan 2017 – 2027 which provides a guide as to how the University might develop its estate over the long-term.

David Gardner, Director for Turner & Townsend, said: “We are thrilled to be working closely with Durham University to create high-value design solutions. The University is renowned for its world-class teaching and research, and we are delighted to support with the delivery of buildings and sport facilities.”

The company will deliver a full service for both schemes including project management and cost consultancy with overall responsibility for commissioning including architecture, landscaping, planning, civil & structural engineering, building services engineering, fire engineering, whole life costings and environmental assessment BREEAM.

David continued: “Our team not only has the strength and depth of experience but also the capability and capacity to deliver two large but distinct types of scheme concurrently.

“Our strong relationship with Durham University has meant we fully understand the sensitivities of carrying out major works and the potential impact on staff, students and the local community. The big challenge is to continue to deliver cost-effective schemes.”

Jane Robinson, Chief Operating Officer of Durham University, added: “We are very pleased to appoint Turner and Townsend and look forward to working with them on these very important projects.

“In order to continue to attract and retain high-calibre staff and students, Durham University needs to ensure that its excellent reputation for research, education and the student experience is matched by a high-quality estate.

“We encourage an open dialogue on our estate plans and are consulting thoroughly with our staff, students and the wider community to inform and shape our proposals.”